Formula One’s Top Drivers: The Ones to Watch In the Upcoming Season
With the 2021 Formula One season just around the corner, fans and experts are already buzzing with anticipation. The world’s most prestigious motorsport competition promises another thrilling year, filled with high-speed action, fierce rivalries, and nail-biting moments. As always, the focus is on the drivers, and this season’s lineup is nothing short of exceptional. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top drivers to watch out for in the upcoming Formula One season.
1. Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes):
When discussing the top drivers in Formula One, it’s impossible not to mention Lewis Hamilton. Arguably the greatest driver of his generation, Hamilton has been a dominant force on the circuit for years. With seven World Championships under his belt, he is now tied with Michael Schumacher for the most titles ever. Hamilton’s consistency, racecraft, and ability to extract the maximum performance from his car make him a formidable competitor. The British driver will undoubtedly be the one to watch, as he aims to break Schumacher’s record and secure an unprecedented eighth World Championship.
2. Max Verstappen (Red Bull Racing):
Max Verstappen, the young Dutch prodigy, has been hailed as a future World Champion from an early age. With his raw talent, lightning-fast reflexes, and fearlessness, Verstappen has quickly become a fan favorite. Despite driving a car that often falls short of the Mercedes’ dominance, Verstappen consistently challenges Hamilton and the rest of the field. Many believe that this could be the year Verstappen finally clinches his maiden World Championship. His partnership with Red Bull Racing seems stronger than ever, and he has shown remarkable maturity and development as a driver. Verstappen’s aggressive and relentless racing style is a spectacle that fans will eagerly watch in the upcoming season.
3. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari):
Charles Leclerc burst onto the Formula One scene in 2018 and has since established himself as one of the sport’s rising stars. Despite Ferrari’s struggles in recent years, Leclerc has consistently delivered strong performances. His stupendous pole lap at the 2019 Bahrain Grand Prix and subsequent triumph showcased his immense talent. Now, with the iconic Ferrari team aiming for a resurgence, Leclerc will be looking to break through and challenge the established order. His smooth driving style, tire management skills, and exceptional racecraft make him a driver to watch closely.
4. Daniel Ricciardo (McLaren):
Moving to McLaren after two seasons with Renault, Daniel Ricciardo brings his infectious smile and exceptional driving skills to the British team. Known for his daring overtakes and his ability to pull off audacious maneuvers, Ricciardo has a reputation as a highly entertaining racer. He will be joining forces with Lando Norris, forming an exciting driver lineup for McLaren. Ricciardo’s move to a more competitive team could see him challenging for podium finishes and potentially even race victories.
5. George Russell (Mercedes):
While George Russell might not yet have secured a podium finish, his talent is undeniable. The young British driver has been a shining star in the underperforming Williams team for the past two seasons. However, when filling in for Lewis Hamilton at the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix, Russell showcased his immense potential, nearly winning the race and outpacing his teammate Valtteri Bottas throughout the weekend. With his recent signing as a Mercedes junior driver and the possibility of a future Mercedes seat, all eyes will be on Russell to see if he can continue to impress when given a more competitive car.
These are just a few of the top drivers to watch out for in the upcoming Formula One season. With a mix of established champions and upcoming talents, the competition promises to be fierce. As the lights go out and the engines roar, fans around the world will be eagerly following the drivers’ every move, anticipating the thrilling battles that await on the racetrack.