The 31 Drivers with the Most Grand Prix in Formula 1 History
Formula 1 is often called the pinnacle of motorsport, but even reaching the grid is a monumental challenge. Winning races and titles is reserved for the elite, but another measure of greatness lies in longevity. To consistently perform at the highest level across years—or even decades—requires talent, discipline, adaptability, and endurance.
This list celebrates the 31 drivers with the most grand prix starts in F1 history. From champions to journeymen, each name here represents a unique story of persistence and passion for racing.
31. Romain Grosjean – 179 starts
The French-Swiss driver made his mark with Lotus and Haas, combining flashes of speed with a reputation for drama. His fiery crash in Bahrain 2020 became one of the most harrowing yet miraculous survival stories in modern F1.
30. Ralf Schumacher – 180 starts
The younger brother of Michael Schumacher, Ralf had a solid career of his own, winning six races and competing with Williams and Toyota. Though never a title contender, he was a regular frontrunner in the early 2000s.
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29. Nick Heidfeld – 183 starts
Often nicknamed “Quick Nick,” Heidfeld was known for his consistency and technical feedback. Despite never winning a race, he holds the record for the most podiums without a victory (13).
28. Kevin Magnussen – 185 starts
Denmark’s most experienced F1 driver, Magnussen debuted with a podium in 2014. Known for his aggressive driving and comeback with Haas, he remains a gritty competitor.
27. Nigel Mansell – 194 starts
A fan favorite, Mansell claimed the 1992 world championship with dominant style. Famous for his mustache and bravery, he also briefly raced in IndyCar and won the championship in his rookie season.
26. Michele Alboreto – 194 starts
One of Italy’s finest, Alboreto was runner-up in the 1985 championship with Ferrari. His elegant driving style earned him respect across the paddock during the turbo era.
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25. Alain Prost – 199 starts
“The Professor” won four world titles with a calm, strategic approach. His legendary rivalry with Ayrton Senna defined a generation and cemented his place in F1 history.
24. Jean Alesi – 201 starts
Alesi only claimed one F1 victory, but his passionate driving won over fans. He drove for Ferrari during a turbulent era and was admired for his loyalty and heart-on-sleeve style.
23. Nelson Piquet – 204 starts
A three-time world champion, Piquet blended technical insight with psychological mind games. His career featured titles with both Brabham and Williams in the 1980s.
22. Nico Rosberg – 206 starts
Rosberg battled with Hamilton at Mercedes and captured the 2016 world title before retiring just days later. Known for his cerebral racing, he left the sport at his peak.
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21. Andrea de Cesaris – 208 starts
Often remembered for his erratic style and frequent crashes, de Cesaris nonetheless started 208 races. He holds the record for most starts without a win.
20. Gerhard Berger – 210 starts
The charismatic Austrian claimed 10 wins and drove for both Ferrari and McLaren. Berger was popular with fans and teammates, known for his sense of humor and bravery.
19. Carlos Sainz – 212 starts
Still active, Sainz has developed into one of F1’s most consistent performers. Son of a rally legend, he won his first grand prix in 2022 and continues to rise.
18. Mark Webber – 215 starts
Webber spent most of his career at Red Bull, where he played a key role in the team’s early success. Though never champion, he notched nine wins and numerous podiums.
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17. Max Verstappen – 215 starts
Despite his young age, Verstappen already has over 200 starts and multiple world titles. Known for his fierce racecraft, he’s one of the most dominant drivers of his era.
16. Giancarlo Fisichella – 229 starts
The Italian won three races and helped Renault secure a Constructors’ Championship alongside Fernando Alonso. A smooth and respected driver with longevity.
15. Nico Hülkenberg – 233 starts
F1’s ultimate journeyman, Hülkenberg is famously the most experienced driver never to score a podium. His resilience and qualifying speed have kept him in demand.
14. Valtteri Bottas – 246 starts
A dependable presence at Mercedes during their dominant years, Bottas helped secure multiple Constructors’ titles. He also claimed 10 wins in his career.
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13. David Coulthard – 246 starts
A mainstay of the 1990s and early 2000s, Coulthard raced for McLaren and Red Bull. With 13 wins, he was a consistent frontrunner and respected veteran.
12. Jarno Trulli – 252 starts
Known for his qualifying prowess—“Trulli trains” included—he won the 2004 Monaco GP and was a staple in the midfield for more than a decade.
11. Riccardo Patrese – 256 starts
Patrese held the record for most starts for over a decade. He raced across four decades and scored six wins during a career defined by endurance.
10. Daniel Ricciardo – 257 starts
The Australian charmed fans with his smile and late-braking heroics. With multiple wins for Red Bull and Renault, he remains one of the sport’s most popular drivers.
9. Felipe Massa – 269 starts
Massa came within seconds of the 2008 world title and earned 11 victories with Ferrari. A consistent and humble racer, he was a fan favorite worldwide.
8. Sergio Pérez – 281 starts
A late bloomer, Pérez became a grand prix winner with Racing Point and later a title contender with Red Bull. His tire management and racecraft have been vital assets.
7. Sebastian Vettel – 299 starts
With four world titles and 53 wins, Vettel was a dominant force in the early 2010s. He later evolved into a respected elder statesman of the sport.
6. Jenson Button – 306 starts
Button claimed the 2009 world title with Brawn GP in one of the most surprising seasons ever. Smooth in style and personality, he was a long-time F1 favorite.
5. Michael Schumacher – 307 starts
One of the sport’s GOATs, Schumacher won seven world championships and revolutionized fitness in F1. His return in 2010 added to his immense tally of starts.
4. Rubens Barrichello – 323 starts
For years the record-holder, Barrichello raced with Ferrari, Brawn, and Williams. Known for his technical feedback and longevity, he remains a beloved figure.
3. Kimi Räikkönen – 349 starts
“The Iceman” was famous for his one-liners and cool demeanor. A world champion in 2007, Räikkönen’s nearly two-decade career earned him a cult following.
2. Lewis Hamilton – 362 starts
A seven-time world champion and statistical giant, Hamilton’s combination of talent, activism, and longevity places him among the greatest ever.
1. Fernando Alonso – 407 starts
No one has started more races than Alonso. The Spaniard’s fiery determination, skill, and adaptability have made him a fixture in F1 for over two decades—and still counting.
