Leclerc? Norris? Russell? Who is the most likely to become the next “new” World Champion?

By Joe Murphy

A disclaimer to start with. It is entirely possible, and arguably probable, that one of Max Verstappen or Lewis Hamilton, will be crowned World Champion for the 2022 season. Last year’s two title protagonists dominated proceedings and, aside from freak results in Hungary and Monza, were a level ahead of the rest of the pack. That being said, at some point in the future, somebody ‘new’ will win the F1 World Title. The big question remains, who will this mystery person be?

George Russell? Well, he certainly has the tools to succeed. If Mercedes are as competitive as they has been over the last decade, there is every chance George takes this honour. Moreover, should Lewis Hamilton retire in the next couple of years, the younger Brit could become the number one driver for the Silver Arrows. With the Constructor showing no signs of slowing down, he could certainly be a World Champion in the not too distant future.

But what about Charles Leclerc? Well, this totally depends on Ferrari. He certainly has the talent to become a future champion. This he has shown in his F1 career to date. However, it is worth pointing out that the Monaco born driver was outscored by his teammate last year. If you consider Charles a contender, you have to also conceive the idea that Carlos Sainz has the potential to win the big one too. Should Ferrari make the expected gains regarding race pace, then both Ferrari drivers have the potential to considerably add to their already substantial points hauls. Whilst 2022 may be a step too early, who’s to say that in 2023, we couldn’t see one of these two take the crown.

Don’t discount Lando Norris either. Whilst McLaren aren’t expecting to dominate the front rows this year by any stretch, Lando certainly has enough talent to be victorious in the sport. Having recently signed a new contract with McLaren, he isn’t going anywhere, so his place on the grid seems about as safe as anybody’s. There is even the possibility that the Brit takes a seat at a top team, potentially even replacing Hamilton at Mercedes further down the line. If the Orange car doesn’t become competitive quickly, it is hard to see Norris staying with the team beyond 2025. Surely a matter of when, not if, car number 4 adds his name to the history books.

There are also some wildcard options too. Lance Stroll could be pushed to the moon with the financial backing of his father. Pierre Gasly could muscle a move to a title-challenging Red Bull, as could Alex Albon. And you’d be a fool to discount Daniel Ricciardo from achieving his dream.