Greatest Formula One Drivers of All Time

There is no doubt that Formula One has produced its share of legends who have redefined speed, precision, and mental toughness. While all eras had some demigods to worship, there are a few who stand out for the relentless pursuit of greatness. Here, two decades of raw talent, transcending machines, and world championships, my countdown of the top five greatest Formula One drivers of all time comes alive.

We take a look at some of the greatest Formula One drivers to have ever laid their hands on the steering wheel. It must be noted, however, that this ranking is strictly based on the number of championships and races won, and the value of accolades, both quantitative and qualitative, earned by the respective drivers.

Here are the greatest Formula One drivers to ever exist in the history of Formula One racing. It is important to note that the ranking is based on the number of championships and races won by the drivers and on the numbers and prizes won by them.

1. Lewis Hamilton 

Lewis Hamilton is a British Formula One racing driver who has been active since 2007. He won a total of 7 championships. For sure, everyone knows Lewis Hamilton as the greatest Formula One driver of all time. He started with McLaren in 2007 and just in his rookie year, almost clinched the title. He finally achieved his first championship in 2008, after which he switched to Mercedes

in 2013, where he began to dominate the sport. Until now, he has won seven world championships - 2008, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020. He also has the record for the most wins and pole positions in F1 history. Currently, he drives for Scuderia Ferrari, where his co-driver is Charles Leclerc. 

2. Michael Schumacher

Michael Schumacher was considered the king of Formula One before Hamilton broke his records. He started in 1991 with Jordan but soon moved to Benetton, where he won his first two titles in 1994 and 1995. In the early 2000s, he joined Ferrari and helped them become the top team. Schumacher won five titles in a row with Ferrari from 2000 to 2004, making a total of seven world championships. 

Schumacher retired in 2006, but his retirement was temporary as he returned for a short comeback with Mercedes from 2010 to 2012. Unfortunately, he met with a tragic accident on 29th December, 2013, while on a skiing trip with his family, which left him paralysed. 

3. Max Verstappen

 Max Verstappen is the superstar of Formula One for the present generation. He became the youngest Formula One driver to make his debut in 2015 with Toro Rosso at just 17 years old. His incredible skills led to his promotion to Red Bull Racing, where he quickly won his first race with them.

 Max has won three world championships in 2021, 2022, and 2023. He is known for his aggressive driving style and confidence. He currently races for Red Bull and is the face of a new era in Formula One. 

4. Sebastian Vettel

Sebastian Vettel had a strong and successful career, especially during his time with Red Bull Racing. He started in 2007 with BMW Sauber and then moved to Toro Rosso, where he won a race in 2008. He joined Red Bull in 2009 and went on to win four world championships in a row from 2010 to 2013.

 After his successful stint at Red Bull, he joined Ferrari and later moved to Aston Martin before retiring in 2022. Vettel was known for his intelligence, calm personality, and clean racing style. His later years were not as successful, but his achievements in the early 2010s were legendary.

5. Ayrton Senna

There is no other Formula One driver who is remembered with as much respect and reverence as Ayrton Senna. He is remembered not only for his racing skills but also for what he represented outside of the track. His NGO, Instituto Ayrton Senna, helped numerous needy and underprivileged people. 

He started in Formula One with Toleman in 1984. He went on to race for Lotus, McLaren, and finally Williams. Senna won three world championships in 1988, 1990, and 1991 with McLaren. He was known for his amazing speed, especially in qualifying and in wet conditions. Sadly, his career ended in tragedy when he died in a crash during the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix while driving for Williams. 

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