By Kate Dowding
A Deep Dive into the Standout Performers of Recent Seasons
In the fast-paced world of Formula 1, dominance is measured not just by raw speed but by a combination of consistency, strategic prowess, and the ability to deliver under pressure. In recent seasons, a select group of drivers have consistently outperformed their rivals, rewriting the record books and redefining what it means to be dominant in the modern era. This article explores the current most dominant drivers in Formula 1, supported by key statistical indicators.
Key Statistical Indicators of Dominance
To objectively measure dominance, several key statistics are considered:
Win Rate: Percentage of races won in a season.
Podium Finishes: Frequency of top-three finishes.
Points per Race: Average points scored per Grand Prix.
Consistency: Number of race finishes in points-paying positions.
Max Verstappen: The Pace Setter
Max Verstappen has emerged as the benchmark in Formula 1, securing 4 world championships and setting a new record for consecutive wins.
Over the course of his Formula 1 career to date, Verstappen has achieved 71 race wins in 233 starts, representing a win rate of 30.47%. He became the first Formula 1 driver to reach 10 consecutive wins, doing so in his stand-out season in 2023, which saw him win 19 out of the 22 races. He has a further winning streak of 9 races from 2023-24.
His 127 podiums (54.51%) include a streak of 15, from the Abu Dhabi GP in 2022 to the 2023 Italian GP. Overall he has obtained 3444.5 points, giving him an average points per race (PPR) of 14.78, underlining his consistency and dominance over the years.
He had another strong season in 2025, pushing Lando Norris and nearly clinching another title. Verstappen won 8 races (win rate of 33.33%), achieved 15 podiums (62.5%) and gained 421 points (PPR of 17.54).
Lando Norris: The New Champion
After one of the most open seasons for many years, Lando Norris was crowned the World Champion, beating Verstappen by the narrowest of margins. Norris has rapidly risen to prominence and established himself as one of the most consistent and competitive drivers. His statistical growth is evident in:
Although he won the title, his figures show that he has not exactly been dominant, statistically speaking at least. Perhaps it is unfair to compare him to Verstappen, who has 233 starts (more than 150% of Norris’ 152). Norris has won 11 races out of those 152 starts (win rate of 7.23%), and achieved 44 podiums (28.94%) and has a career PPR of 9.41.
If we focus on his 2025 season, however, things look brighter. As well as winning his first title, he also won 7 of the 24 races (a win rate of 29.17%), and stood on the podium 18 times (75%) and obtained 423 points (PPR of 17.63).
Oscar Piastri: The Rising Star
McLaren’s ‘second’ driver also had a strong season, especially given it was only his third in Formula 1, since he stepped up in 2023.
Out of his 70 starts he has achieved 9 wins (12.85% win rate), 26 podiums (37.14%) and 799 points (PPR of 11.41). His 2025 season shows impressive growth, as he came third in the Championship, with 7 wins (29.17% win rate), 16 podiums (66.67%) and 410 points (PPR of 17.08).
His qualifying consistency and race pace matured significantly, as reflected by his high finishing positions. If he can maintain this momentum into the 2026 season, he could be a real contender.
Lewis Hamilton: The Consistent Challenger
No look at dominant drivers would be complete without Lewis Hamilton. Hamilton remains a formidable force, with a legacy of record-breaking achievements and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Despite facing increased competition, Hamilton’s statistics reinforce his status as one of the sport’s greatest:
Throughout his time in the sport, Hamilton has won a record equalling 7 World Championships. His career has included 105 race wins from 380 starts, giving him a win rate of 27.63%, and 202 podiums (53.15%). He also holds the record for most pole positions at 104.
Over the years he has racked up 5018.5 points, making his PPR of 13.21 only slightly lower than that of Verstappen, which is very impressive given Hamilton’s high number of races.
Having started the sport in 2007, few can doubt Hamilton’s longevity. He has consistently performed well across different teams and regulation eras (V8 and hybrid V6). It will be interesting to see how he handles the new 2026 regs.
Looking Ahead
The current era of Formula 1 features a blend of established champions and rising talents, each demonstrating dominance in unique ways. While Max Verstappen’s recent statistics are unparalleled, Lando Norris’s consistency, Oscar Piastri’s growing race craft, and Lewis Hamilton’s enduring excellence all contribute to an exciting and competitive grid. As the sport continues to evolve, these drivers set the standard for what it means to be truly dominant in Formula 1 today.
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