In shortNumber 1 in our ranking is Ayrton Senna, followed by Lewis Hamilton and Michael Schumacher.
Who are the greatest Formula 1 drivers of all time? Comparing eras is almost impossible: the cars, safety and competition have changed completely. We weighed titles, raw talent and impact on the sport.
Senna ahead of Hamilton and Schumacher? We know it’s controversial. Vote for your number 1 below or tell us who is missing.
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1. Ayrton Senna
Brazil · 3 titles
For many, the fastest driver ever over a single lap. His talent in the rain and his rivalry with Prost are legendary; his death at Imola in 1994 shocked the world.
2. Lewis Hamilton
United Kingdom · 7 titles
Seven world titles and the records for wins and pole positions. He dominated an era and became a figure who transcends the sport.
3. Michael Schumacher
Germany · 7 titles
He rebuilt Ferrari and won five titles in a row with the Scuderia between 2000 and 2004. His work ethic changed the way Formula 1 is approached.
4. Juan Manuel Fangio
Argentina · 5 titles
Five titles in the 1950s, when racing was far more dangerous, with four different teams. It stood as the record for almost half a century.
5. Max Verstappen
Netherlands · several titles since 2021
He arrived in F1 at 17 and became the dominant driver of his generation, with record-breaking winning seasons.
6. Alain Prost
France · 4 titles
'The Professor': intelligent, calculating and extremely fast. His duel with Senna at McLaren is the greatest rivalry in the sport's history.
7. Fernando Alonso
Spain · 2 titles
Champion in 2005 and 2006, ending the Schumacher era. Considered by many drivers one of the most complete in history, and one of the longest-serving.
8. Niki Lauda
Austria · 3 titles
He suffered a terrible crash at the Nürburgring in 1976 and was racing again weeks later. He won three titles, and his story is one of the most remarkable in sport.
9. Jim Clark
United Kingdom · 2 titles
A natural talent who dominated the 1960s with Lotus. His fellow drivers of the era considered him the best of them all.
10. Sebastian Vettel
Germany · 4 titles
Four consecutive titles with Red Bull between 2010 and 2013, becoming the youngest champion in history at the time.
Frequently asked questions
Which driver has the most Formula 1 titles?
Lewis Hamilton and Michael Schumacher share the record with seven world championships each.
How many world titles has Fernando Alonso won?
Two, in 2005 and 2006 with Renault.
Would you change the order?
Tell us what's missing, what shouldn't be here or what you'd put at number 1.