This will definitely give this iconic sport some flavor, especially with younger fans, without disrespecting these predecessors. The best thing is that the earlier F1 drivers will never be forgotten because their exploits are recorded for posterity.
Recounting Modern Day F1 Greats
Their number is big and it would be impossible to mention all. However, here are some of these icons:
Jenson Button: When you have talent, but no good car, you can’t win unless FIA allows you to fly. This was exactly what Button proved in 2009 with the Braun team. After joining Williams at only 20 years, the Brit struggled a lot, but his brilliance shows in his 266 F1 race starts – 15 wins, a championship and 8 pole positions.
Sebastian Vettel: This is another maverick described as ‘baby schumi’ after legendary Schumacher. With 139 race starts, four championships under his belt with RedBull, 45 pole positions and still running hot this year with Ferrari, there is much more to come from the German.
Kimi Raikkonen: Forgive his communication skills because he covers up for the same with his skills on the track. Since his debut in 2001, the Iceman has wowed when in the right car and it showed in 2007 when he won the championship in a Ferrari. He has had 213 race starts, 20 wins, 16 pole positions and, of course, the championship.
Fernando Alonso: After Button, this is the most experienced driver on the grid. He has moved to McLaren for 2015 and with 236 starts, he boasts 32 wins, 22 pole positions and 2 championships. El Nano has many records, and the fact that he always performs in under-performing cars makes him quite dangerous on the track.
Lewis Hamilton: This goes without saying because when in his aspect, Hamilton just does magic. Winning a championship in your second season is not common, but he did in 2008 and won another in 2014. With 148 race starts, he already boasts 2 championships, 38 pole positions, 33 wins and 20 fastest laps. Many say he is reminiscent of Ayrton Senna, but time will tell.
Today’s grid is talent galore from Nico Rosberg, Massa, Daniel Ricciardo and Bottas, among others. The question remains; who will end up in the hall of fame?