F1 driver rankings: Was anyone better than Verstappen in 2024?

Red Bull Racing/Red Bull Content Pool

The top 10 drivers of the season.

As the 2024 Formula 1 season draws to a close, it's that controversial time of year to rank the top 10 drivers without considering car performance but focusing solely on their individual performances relative to expectations. Here are the top 10 drivers of the season:

10. Pierre Gasly, Alpine

Gasly owes his spot largely to a strong end to the season. While Alpine's early performance made it difficult to judge him, Gasly shined when the car became competitive. He scored points in four of the final five rounds and was part of Alpine's double podium in Brazil. His standout moment came with a third-place grid position in Las Vegas.

9. Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes

Hamilton's final year with Mercedes was not as planned, despite a victory at the British Grand Prix. He was beaten by teammate George Russell in qualifying and finished seventh overall, his worst in 18 years. Nonetheless, Hamilton's "bad" seasons still show glimpses of his legendary skills, with two victories, additional podiums, and impressive recoveries, like his charge through the field in Abu Dhabi. Midway through a disappointing weekend in Qatar, he stated, “I’ve still got it,” showing he still has flashes of brilliance.

8. Nico Hülkenberg, Haas

One of 2024's success stories saw Haas rise from the bottom of the constructors' standings, with Hülkenberg playing a significant role. He scored points in 12 of 24 rounds and qualified in the top 10 eleven times. Although a podium finish remained elusive, his consistency was noteworthy.

7. Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin

Despite a car that regressed compared to rivals, Alonso's efforts were crucial in securing Aston Martin's fifth place in the constructors' standings. He managed to score points consistently and had 16 Q3 appearances, showcasing his skill in getting the best out of a challenging car.

6. Oscar Piastri, McLaren

In only his second season, Piastri showed immense promise with six front-row qualifications and eight podiums, including two victories. Although he wasn't as consistent as teammate Lando Norris, Piastri demonstrated potential that suggests he could become a future championship contender.

5. Carlos Sainz, Ferrari

Sainz had arguably his best season, with two victories in Australia and Mexico and several podium finishes throughout the year. Despite a mid-season dip in performance, he ended the season strongly and outshone many with his resilience and consistency.

4. George Russell, Mercedes

Russell decisively beat Hamilton over the season, outperforming him significantly in qualifying and securing more points. His speed was evident despite the disappointment of losing a victory due to a post-race disqualification in Belgium, where he had shown exceptional skill.

3. Charles Leclerc, Ferrari

Leclerc displayed remarkable consistency, finishing in the top four at 19 of the 24 races. Although his championship hopes dwindled mid-season due to Ferrari’s struggles, he finished the year strongly, with victories that showcased his growth and potential as a future champion.

2. Lando Norris, McLaren

Norris had a breakthrough year, contending for the title and shedding his “Lando No-wins” nickname. Despite a few missed opportunities and learning experiences, Norris demonstrated he is ready for a sustained championship challenge, consistently performing at a high level.

1. Max Verstappen, Red Bull

Verstappen continued to prove his dominance with his fourth world championship. His year was marked by nine wins, including some against significant competition. Even in challenging situations, such as the wet race in Brazil, Verstappen's speed and ability were unmatched. Despite some moments of controversy, his sheer talent makes it hard to argue there was a better driver in 2024.

The 2024 season was filled with remarkable individual performances, but once again, Verstappen stood out as the best driver on the grid.

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