Formula 1 marked its 75th anniversary by releasing a special list of the 20 greatest drivers in the sport’s history. Among icons like Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton, Brazilian Ayrton Senna stands out as the only representative from his country, solidifying his legacy as a legend in the sport. Published on the official F1 website, the selection does not follow a specific order but highlights remarkable achievements both on and off the track. Senna, a three-time world champion, was recognized not only for his victories but also for moments of heroism and historic rivalries that defined his career.
Other notable Brazilian drivers, such as three-time champion Nelson Piquet and two-time champion Emerson Fittipaldi, were notably absent from the list, sparking discussions among fans. The ranking also includes current drivers like Max Verstappen and Fernando Alonso, alongside historical figures who never won a title, such as Stirling Moss and Gilles Villeneuve. The selection spans different eras of F1, illustrating how the sport has evolved over the decades and how certain names continue to inspire new generations.
In addition to the drivers, Formula 1 took the opportunity to list the 15 most iconic cars in its history. Models like the Red Bull RB19, dominant in 2023, and the classic Alfa Romeo 158/9 Alfetta, a champion in 1950, were highlighted. The initiative aims not only to honor the past but also to connect today’s fans with the roots of the category, which officially began in 1950 and has grown into one of the most-watched sporting events globally.
75 years of F1 🤩
In honour of this milestone season, we’ve gone through the 75 best drivers, cars, innovations, teams and key figures from Formula 1’s 75 years so far… 📝#F1https://t.co/vVHNIrh7PO
— Formula 1 (@F1) March 5, 2025
Ayrton Senna’s legacy shines in commemorative list
Throughout his Formula 1 career, Ayrton Senna amassed impressive numbers: 41 wins, 65 pole positions, and three world titles (1988, 1990, and 1991). His ability to excel under challenging conditions, such as his iconic victory at the 1984 Monaco Grand Prix, remains one of the most memorable moments in the sport. However, what places him among the all-time greats isn’t just his statistics but also his impact off the track. The Brazilian is often remembered for his passion when representing Brazil, exemplified by his emotional triumph at Interlagos in 1991, where he won despite his car being stuck in sixth gear for the final laps.
One of the most remarkable episodes of his career was his rescue of fellow driver Erik Comas during practice for the 1992 Belgian Grand Prix. After a severe crash, Senna stopped his car and ran to assist the unconscious Frenchman, an act of bravery that remains a testament to his character. His rivalry with Alain Prost, which dominated the sport in the late 1980s and early 1990s, was also noted as one of the most intense chapters in F1 history, featuring unforgettable battles on tracks like Suzuka.
Though his life was tragically cut short at the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix, Senna’s influence endures. The Ayrton Senna Institute, established by his family, has supported millions of children in Brazil through educational initiatives. His legacy also resonates with subsequent generations of Brazilian drivers, who often cite the three-time champion as their inspiration.
Other giants of Formula 1 in the 75-year selection
Among the 20 drivers listed, names like Michael Schumacher, with seven world titles, and Lewis Hamilton, also a seven-time champion, were expected inclusions. Schumacher dominated the early 2000s with Ferrari, while Hamilton revolutionized the sport with Mercedes, matching records once thought unbreakable. Max Verstappen, with four titles by 2024, also made the list, cementing his status as one of the modern greats. Fernando Alonso, a two-time champion in 2005 and 2006, was another active driver recognized for his longevity and consistency.
Historical figures also earned their place in the selection. Juan Manuel Fangio, who won five championships in the 1950s, is often regarded as the gold standard of excellence in a more dangerous era of motorsport. Jackie Stewart, a three-time champion in the 1960s and 1970s, was celebrated not only for his wins but also for his advocacy for greater safety in racing. Interestingly, two drivers without titles were included: Stirling Moss, who raced in the 1950s and is considered one of the best never to win a championship, and Gilles Villeneuve, whose aggressive driving style and charisma left a lasting mark until his death in 1982.
The list also honors names like Niki Lauda, who claimed three titles and survived a horrific crash in 1976, and Jim Clark, a two-time champion in the 1960s, known for his almost surgical precision behind the wheel. These drivers represent various eras of Formula 1, showcasing how the sport has evolved from its origins to the present day, with advanced technology and improved safety standards.
Iconic cars that shaped seven decades of Formula 1
Beyond the drivers, Formula 1 highlighted the 15 most iconic cars in its history, spanning from the early days to the modern era. The Alfa Romeo 158/9 Alfetta, which dominated the inaugural F1 season in 1950 with Giuseppe Farina and Juan Manuel Fangio, is one of the oldest models on the list. Originally designed in 1937, the car was adapted for post-war racing and won six of the seven races that year, a remarkable feat for its time.
Among more recent entries, the Red Bull RB19, driven by Max Verstappen in 2023, was included after a season of near-total dominance, securing 21 wins in 22 races. Another standout is the McLaren MP4/4 from 1988, which claimed 15 victories out of 16 races with Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost at the helm. The list also features the Ferrari F2002, which carried Michael Schumacher to the 2002 title, and the Mercedes W11, dominant in 2020, with Lewis Hamilton breaking records for wins and podiums.
Here are some of the historic cars mentioned, along with the drivers who led them to success:
- Alfa Romeo 158/9 Alfetta (1950): Giuseppe Farina and Juan Manuel Fangio.
- Lotus 72 (1970-1975): Emerson Fittipaldi and Jochen Rindt.
- McLaren MP4/4 (1988): Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost.
- Red Bull RB19 (2023): Max Verstappen and Sergio Pérez.
- Mercedes W11 (2020): Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas.
These models not only defined their respective eras but also contributed to technological advancements that shaped the sport.
Historic moments that defined Formula 1’s 75 years
Seven decades of Formula 1 have delivered unforgettable moments that transcend wins and titles. The sport has witnessed intense rivalries, like that of Senna and Prost, which culminated in controversial crashes at Suzuka in 1989 and 1990. Another defining chapter came in 1976 when Niki Lauda suffered a near-fatal accident at the German Grand Prix but returned to racing just six weeks later, battling for the championship against James Hunt until the final race.
The evolution of safety has also been a crucial storyline. In the 1950s, drivers raced without seatbelts and with rudimentary helmets. Following tragedies like Senna’s in 1994, Formula 1 introduced sweeping changes, including the HANS (Head and Neck Support) system and safer track barriers. Today, fatal accidents are rare, though the sport continues to balance safety with speed.
The 2021 season stands out as well, with Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen engaging in one of the closest title fights in history, decided only on the final lap of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. These moments, paired with technological innovation in car design, illustrate how Formula 1 has remained relevant over 75 years.
Timeline of Formula 1’s most significant milestones
To grasp the sport’s evolution, several key events have defined its seven-decade journey. Here’s a timeline of pivotal moments:
- 1950: First official Formula 1 season, with Giuseppe Farina winning the British Grand Prix.
- 1970: Introduction of the Lotus 72, one of the most revolutionary cars in history, driven by Emerson Fittipaldi and Jochen Rindt.
- 1988: McLaren MP4/4 dominates with 15 wins in 16 races, driven by Senna and Prost.
- 1994: Ayrton Senna’s fatal crash at Imola prompts major safety advancements.
- 2023: Red Bull RB19 wins 21 of 22 races, setting a new benchmark for consistency.
These milestones highlight how Formula 1 evolved from a niche sport into a global phenomenon, captivating millions of fans and continually innovating.
Global impact and the future of Formula 1
Formula 1’s influence extends beyond the racetrack, touching cultural and economic spheres. Grands Prix like Monaco and Brazil’s Interlagos have become major tourist events, generating millions in revenue for host cities. The sport has also expanded geographically, with races in new markets such as the Middle East and Asia in recent decades.
Technologically, Formula 1 has served as a testing ground for the automotive industry. Innovations like disc brakes and hybrid engines, now standard in road cars, originated on F1 tracks. In recent years, the sport has also committed to sustainability, aiming to be carbon-neutral by 2030 through the use of sustainable fuels and cleaner technologies.
The inclusion of younger drivers, such as Lando Norris and Charles Leclerc, alongside emerging talents like Brazilian Gabriel Bortoleto, who has impressed with Sauber, signals a renewal in the sport. With new regulations set for 2026, promising lighter cars and closer racing, Formula 1 appears poised for another 75 years of history.

Formula 1 marked its 75th anniversary by releasing a special list of the 20 greatest drivers in the sport’s history. Among icons like Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton, Brazilian Ayrton Senna stands out as the only representative from his country, solidifying his legacy as a legend in the sport. Published on the official F1 website, the selection does not follow a specific order but highlights remarkable achievements both on and off the track. Senna, a three-time world champion, was recognized not only for his victories but also for moments of heroism and historic rivalries that defined his career.
Other notable Brazilian drivers, such as three-time champion Nelson Piquet and two-time champion Emerson Fittipaldi, were notably absent from the list, sparking discussions among fans. The ranking also includes current drivers like Max Verstappen and Fernando Alonso, alongside historical figures who never won a title, such as Stirling Moss and Gilles Villeneuve. The selection spans different eras of F1, illustrating how the sport has evolved over the decades and how certain names continue to inspire new generations.
In addition to the drivers, Formula 1 took the opportunity to list the 15 most iconic cars in its history. Models like the Red Bull RB19, dominant in 2023, and the classic Alfa Romeo 158/9 Alfetta, a champion in 1950, were highlighted. The initiative aims not only to honor the past but also to connect today’s fans with the roots of the category, which officially began in 1950 and has grown into one of the most-watched sporting events globally.
75 years of F1 🤩
In honour of this milestone season, we’ve gone through the 75 best drivers, cars, innovations, teams and key figures from Formula 1’s 75 years so far… 📝#F1https://t.co/vVHNIrh7PO
— Formula 1 (@F1) March 5, 2025
Ayrton Senna’s legacy shines in commemorative list
Throughout his Formula 1 career, Ayrton Senna amassed impressive numbers: 41 wins, 65 pole positions, and three world titles (1988, 1990, and 1991). His ability to excel under challenging conditions, such as his iconic victory at the 1984 Monaco Grand Prix, remains one of the most memorable moments in the sport. However, what places him among the all-time greats isn’t just his statistics but also his impact off the track. The Brazilian is often remembered for his passion when representing Brazil, exemplified by his emotional triumph at Interlagos in 1991, where he won despite his car being stuck in sixth gear for the final laps.
One of the most remarkable episodes of his career was his rescue of fellow driver Erik Comas during practice for the 1992 Belgian Grand Prix. After a severe crash, Senna stopped his car and ran to assist the unconscious Frenchman, an act of bravery that remains a testament to his character. His rivalry with Alain Prost, which dominated the sport in the late 1980s and early 1990s, was also noted as one of the most intense chapters in F1 history, featuring unforgettable battles on tracks like Suzuka.
Though his life was tragically cut short at the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix, Senna’s influence endures. The Ayrton Senna Institute, established by his family, has supported millions of children in Brazil through educational initiatives. His legacy also resonates with subsequent generations of Brazilian drivers, who often cite the three-time champion as their inspiration.
Other giants of Formula 1 in the 75-year selection
Among the 20 drivers listed, names like Michael Schumacher, with seven world titles, and Lewis Hamilton, also a seven-time champion, were expected inclusions. Schumacher dominated the early 2000s with Ferrari, while Hamilton revolutionized the sport with Mercedes, matching records once thought unbreakable. Max Verstappen, with four titles by 2024, also made the list, cementing his status as one of the modern greats. Fernando Alonso, a two-time champion in 2005 and 2006, was another active driver recognized for his longevity and consistency.
Historical figures also earned their place in the selection. Juan Manuel Fangio, who won five championships in the 1950s, is often regarded as the gold standard of excellence in a more dangerous era of motorsport. Jackie Stewart, a three-time champion in the 1960s and 1970s, was celebrated not only for his wins but also for his advocacy for greater safety in racing. Interestingly, two drivers without titles were included: Stirling Moss, who raced in the 1950s and is considered one of the best never to win a championship, and Gilles Villeneuve, whose aggressive driving style and charisma left a lasting mark until his death in 1982.
The list also honors names like Niki Lauda, who claimed three titles and survived a horrific crash in 1976, and Jim Clark, a two-time champion in the 1960s, known for his almost surgical precision behind the wheel. These drivers represent various eras of Formula 1, showcasing how the sport has evolved from its origins to the present day, with advanced technology and improved safety standards.
Iconic cars that shaped seven decades of Formula 1
Beyond the drivers, Formula 1 highlighted the 15 most iconic cars in its history, spanning from the early days to the modern era. The Alfa Romeo 158/9 Alfetta, which dominated the inaugural F1 season in 1950 with Giuseppe Farina and Juan Manuel Fangio, is one of the oldest models on the list. Originally designed in 1937, the car was adapted for post-war racing and won six of the seven races that year, a remarkable feat for its time.
Among more recent entries, the Red Bull RB19, driven by Max Verstappen in 2023, was included after a season of near-total dominance, securing 21 wins in 22 races. Another standout is the McLaren MP4/4 from 1988, which claimed 15 victories out of 16 races with Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost at the helm. The list also features the Ferrari F2002, which carried Michael Schumacher to the 2002 title, and the Mercedes W11, dominant in 2020, with Lewis Hamilton breaking records for wins and podiums.
Here are some of the historic cars mentioned, along with the drivers who led them to success:
- Alfa Romeo 158/9 Alfetta (1950): Giuseppe Farina and Juan Manuel Fangio.
- Lotus 72 (1970-1975): Emerson Fittipaldi and Jochen Rindt.
- McLaren MP4/4 (1988): Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost.
- Red Bull RB19 (2023): Max Verstappen and Sergio Pérez.
- Mercedes W11 (2020): Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas.
These models not only defined their respective eras but also contributed to technological advancements that shaped the sport.
Historic moments that defined Formula 1’s 75 years
Seven decades of Formula 1 have delivered unforgettable moments that transcend wins and titles. The sport has witnessed intense rivalries, like that of Senna and Prost, which culminated in controversial crashes at Suzuka in 1989 and 1990. Another defining chapter came in 1976 when Niki Lauda suffered a near-fatal accident at the German Grand Prix but returned to racing just six weeks later, battling for the championship against James Hunt until the final race.
The evolution of safety has also been a crucial storyline. In the 1950s, drivers raced without seatbelts and with rudimentary helmets. Following tragedies like Senna’s in 1994, Formula 1 introduced sweeping changes, including the HANS (Head and Neck Support) system and safer track barriers. Today, fatal accidents are rare, though the sport continues to balance safety with speed.
The 2021 season stands out as well, with Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen engaging in one of the closest title fights in history, decided only on the final lap of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. These moments, paired with technological innovation in car design, illustrate how Formula 1 has remained relevant over 75 years.
Timeline of Formula 1’s most significant milestones
To grasp the sport’s evolution, several key events have defined its seven-decade journey. Here’s a timeline of pivotal moments:
- 1950: First official Formula 1 season, with Giuseppe Farina winning the British Grand Prix.
- 1970: Introduction of the Lotus 72, one of the most revolutionary cars in history, driven by Emerson Fittipaldi and Jochen Rindt.
- 1988: McLaren MP4/4 dominates with 15 wins in 16 races, driven by Senna and Prost.
- 1994: Ayrton Senna’s fatal crash at Imola prompts major safety advancements.
- 2023: Red Bull RB19 wins 21 of 22 races, setting a new benchmark for consistency.
These milestones highlight how Formula 1 evolved from a niche sport into a global phenomenon, captivating millions of fans and continually innovating.
Global impact and the future of Formula 1
Formula 1’s influence extends beyond the racetrack, touching cultural and economic spheres. Grands Prix like Monaco and Brazil’s Interlagos have become major tourist events, generating millions in revenue for host cities. The sport has also expanded geographically, with races in new markets such as the Middle East and Asia in recent decades.
Technologically, Formula 1 has served as a testing ground for the automotive industry. Innovations like disc brakes and hybrid engines, now standard in road cars, originated on F1 tracks. In recent years, the sport has also committed to sustainability, aiming to be carbon-neutral by 2030 through the use of sustainable fuels and cleaner technologies.
The inclusion of younger drivers, such as Lando Norris and Charles Leclerc, alongside emerging talents like Brazilian Gabriel Bortoleto, who has impressed with Sauber, signals a renewal in the sport. With new regulations set for 2026, promising lighter cars and closer racing, Formula 1 appears poised for another 75 years of history.
