By Joe Murphy
There are 20 Drivers and, coincidentally, 20 teams in the English Premier League. With similarities in the world of football reflected in that of Formula 1, it is easy to see which current drivers closest resemble a specific team from the top flight. We begin with Manchester City.
Manchester City = Lewis Hamilton
Since money came into the sport, one dominant force has been on top except once or twice. Never quite considered the best of all time and doesn’t dominate in Europe, but has been nearly unstoppable in recent times.
Liverpool = Max Verstappen
Hugely talented but only have one title in the last 30 years, so fans are getting a bit ahead of themselves. Times are still promising, however, and they could be on top again as soon as this year. They have some of the most passionate fans, but also the most unstable.
Chelsea = Sergio Perez
Have been around and competitive for years. They have had their moments of glory and only recently are being recognised as one of the greatest in their division. However, they cannot quite shake that unfavourable opinion that, despite some one off wonders, they cannot compete with the big boys on a regular basis.
Tottenham – Charles Leclerc
Sometimes it’s not their fault, but they have both been known for bottling leads. A lack of silverware may become more of an issue if it persists but have definitely come along way from a few years ago. Not really hated by rival fans, because never really taken as a serious threat. Potentially, until now…
Arsenal – Fernando Alonso
Their best days are behind them but they can certainly still hang on their day. Talented and flamboyant on occasion, but fans often overrate them. They also can’t stop harping on about their success fifteen years ago.
Manchester United = Sebastian Vettel
Used to be absolutely unstoppable in their era of domination, but that was over ten years ago. Now, a minor threat. Also, used to be hated but since not being competitive, nobody really cares about them now other than their passionate fanbase. Look best in red, that’s for sure.
West Ham = Carlos Sainz
They somehow find themselves up hanging around the top without ever actually winning anything. Have been around a while but only now recognised for their talents. More a tricky opponent than a major threat to anyone. Can make a mistake in the blink of an eye.
Wolves = Valtteri Bottas
They are used to finishing relatively well and have come into their own in the last year since a change of direction. Again, never a threat to the big boys but can be stiff competition when going head-to-head. A stalwart of the division by this point.
Crystal Palace = Lando Norris
Well supported and likeable, they are the hipsters choice. Exciting times have dwindled slightly and they never win anything. That being said, they can definitely cause the bigger teams problems and beat any of them on their day.
Leicester City = Estaban Ocon
Like the previous entry, they too are likeable and have been around a fair while. They had one shock win a little while ago, but that doesn’t look like it will be repeated anytime soon. Promising future but nothing too outstanding.
Southampton = Nikolas Latifi
Kind of hanging around, arguably undeserving so. Have had tricky times in late with heavy losses and silly mistakes. If they don’t get their act together, they could be in trouble fairly soon. A bit of a confusing and harmless one.
Newcastle United = Lance Stroll
Here comes the Money! Again, they have been around for ages and certainly have had their glory days. With a big financial backing, there is genuine scope for a bright and long future in the sport. Recent changes not quite coming to fruition just yet but it’s not where you start, it’s where you finish. Probably going to be a force in a few years.
Fulham = Kevin Magnussen
A couple of years ago, they were here. Then, last year, they were gone. Now, in 2022, they are back and hoping to make that permentant. Have had some great glory days a long time ago but not much of a threat these days. Not the largest support either when compared to others. Still, a passionate fanbase and the place is better with them around.
Nottingham Forest = Guanyu Zhou
The least known entity could potentially make them dangerous this year, although it is uncertain how long they will remain at the top level. Has enjoyed past success in another division but you can’t help feeling glad they are here now.
Bournemouth = Alex Albon
Were good a couple of years ago then went away for a bit. However, now they are back are arguably better than ever. They are both very cost efficient and have a promising future, even if their support is probably the worst in the division. Probably won’t finish in the top half but will be happy if they just stay around for a bit.
Everton = Pierre Gasly
Talented and have had a lot of backing over recent years without ever really competing with or troubling the bigger teams. Have had good days but have kind of got stuck towards the lower end of the grid. The future could be looking bright, however.
Brighton – George Russell
Consistent and likeable, with not a lot more to say about them. Very typically English and have caused problems for some of the best in the division. Yet to win anything but that is surely the next logical step.
Aston Villa – Mick Schumacher
Their historical name is a major reason why they are an attractive proposition. In a different time, the name yielded vast success. Now, it’s a bit disappointing. Big financial backing without ever having the opportunity to pay it back. Not very attacking and can be clumsy, but not really hated by anyone in the division.
Brentford = Yuki Tsunoda
You take one look at them and think, what are they doing there? But then they demonstrate to you on quite a few occasions that they do belong. Some impressive performances weaved into some rather less impressive ones. Nobody really wants them gone, but they could be in a spot of bother in the not too distant future if things don’t work out.
Leeds = Daniel Riccardo
A very passionate fanbase and some of their glory days have been incredible. That was a long time ago, though. They made a change a little while ago and they are probably thinking it was a mistake. Now, operated by an American Boss, the pressure is on otherwise one of the divisions staples may not have a long term future. They need to turn up more and showcase the best version of themselves, which included amazing attacking moves and entertaining driving.
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