The Top 10 Formula 1 Racing Drivers of All Time
Formula One is a tough and competitive sport, with the world’s finest racing drivers battling it out for the victory. It has become a global brand, and the racers have become respected celebrities and sports personalities.
Who are the 10 best drivers to ever grace the Formula One circuit? Image copyright James Bird
Over the many years of Formula One, there have been some incredibly talented drivers – many more than the 10 we list here. Still, many polls have been conducted to decide the best drivers of all time, and here are the most popular choices:
10. Mika Hakkinen
Hakkinen was a force to be reckoned with in the late 1990s, winning 2 world championships. He was from Finland, and many people regard Finland to produce some of the best drivers in the world. This has been suggested due to the unique racing culture and road layouts of the country. He won an impressive 20 races throughout his career too.
9. Fernando Alonso
The Spaniard is one of the currently favourites amongst racing fans as he has had a long and exciting career over the last decade. He won the championship in 2005 and 2006 and many remember him for knocking Schumacher of his throne.
8. Nigel Mansell
Mansell raced in 187 races and won an impressive 31 of them. Although he only won a single championship in 1992, he’s widely renowned as one of the best driving purists out there.
7. Juan Manuel Fangio
Fangio only raced 51 times, but won 24 of them giving him a superb ratio. He raced until he age of 47, putting him in the history books too. He won championships in 1951, 54, 54, 56 and 57.
6. Sterling Moss
Moss was one of the great pre-war racers, winning 16 of his 66 races. He has been idolised by many and Mercedes have since released a road car in his name. Moss is one of the most famous racers we have seen.
5. Jackie Stewart
Winning 27 of his 99 racing, Stewart is an ambassador for British racing talent, and has been since the 60s. He won 3 titles in 1969, 71 and 73. Since the death of a close friend on the track, he has been campaigning for increased car safety regulations.
4. Alain Prost
Prost raced 199 times in Formula One, and won 51 times, which is certainly impressive. He gained 3 titles throughout the 80s and once again in 93. He is generally regarded as the finest French driver of all time.
3. Michael Schumacher
Schumacher is probably the most famous racer in the world, and this is not surprising as he has raced more than 250 times. He retired, and then came back because he simply loved to race. He won 91 times and has won 7 championships throughout the 90s and 00s.
2. Jim Clark
Clark is the most respected British racer of all time, and his career was tragically cut short early. He won 25 of the 72 races he participated in and has gained respect from everyone who had the pleasure to drive alongside him.
1. Ayrton Senna
Senna is the Brazilian rocket who won 41 of his 161 races and has received incredible praise and respect for the way he handles his car. Although only winning 3 championships, his career was cut short in the action. He has a magic touch and always got the most out of the cars, making it look effortless, even in the rain.
About the Author: Steve loves car racing, and dreams of being a Formula One driver. He tests out new cars through car hire services as he does not own his own.
