Welcome to the Driver Power Rankings covering the Bahrain, Australian, Chinese, and Japanese Grands Prix — the four races that have taken place at the time of writing. This will likely be the only time the rankings are presented in a bundled format; going forward, they’ll be published on a race-by-race basis.
These rankings are based on a blend of metrics including qualifying performance, race craft, final results, penalties, team influence, and yes — even a bit of luck! Because F1 awards the lion’s share of points to podium finishers, you’ll notice that reflected here too, with some potentially wide scoring gaps between positions — particularly between P1 and P2.
Perfect scores are reserved for drivers who completely dominated the weekend — usually where their only real competitor was their own teammate.
With that out of the way let’s dive in!
P20: #5 Gabriel Bortoleto | Kick Sauber
Avg. Qualifying | Avg. Finish | Season Ranking | Driver Standing Points |
17 | 17 | 37 | 0 |
Gabriel Bortoleto enters his rookie F1 season with Kick Sauber in a car struggling to escape the back of the grid. Yet across four rounds, he’s shown flashes of promise even if the scoreboard still reads zero.
Australia: Raw Pace, Rookie Error | Driver Ranking: 41
Melbourne was a tale of two halves, a confident Q1 knock-out blow to fellow rookie Antonelli, followed by a crash in Q2 and a race-ending spin in wet conditions. Early signs of potential, but matched by inexperience.
China: Quiet Progress | Driver Ranking: 36
P14 in Shanghai and ahead of teammate Hülkenberg, a small but significant step forward. No mistakes, clean execution, and improved consistency marked his most well-rounded weekend yet.
Japan: Margins and Maturity| Driver Ranking: 35
Just 0.016s off Hülkenberg in qualifying, Bortoleto came agonizingly close to Q2. P19 was the maximum possible in race trim. He continues to manage tyre wear and pressure well, even if the results don’t reflect it yet.
Bahrain: Groundwork Laid| Driver Ranking: 35
His race saw a steady P18 in both qualifying and the race. No fireworks, but no costly errors either exactly what the team needed from a rookie.
Summary: Steady if Unspectacular
With a season rating of 37, Bortoleto is holding his own in a difficult car. He’s met expectations, shown flashes of speed, and most importantly avoided major regression. One to watch as confidence builds.
P19: #7 Jack Doohan| Alpine
Avg. Qualifying | Avg. Finish | Season Ranking | Driver Standing Points |
14 | 14 | 37 | 0 |
Jack Doohan’s debut season with Alpine has been a steady climb — flashes of raw pace offset by rookie mistakes and a car that’s drifting into the lower midfield. With no points after four rounds, he sits P19 in our rankings, just ahead of fellow rookie Bortoleto.
Australia: Promise Cut Short | Driver Ranking: 25
In Melbourne, Doohan made Q2 on merit and looked set for a strong lap before yellow flags ruined his run. A crash later in the race ended a frustrating but fast home debut.
China: Solid Recovery| Driver Ranking: 36
Doohan bounced back in Shanghai with a clean race and P13 finish — not spectacular, but a much-needed confidence boost. He showed consistent race pace and handled pressure well.In Melbourne, Doohan made Q2 on merit and looked set for a strong lap before yellow flags ruined his run. A crash later in the race ended a frustrating but fast home debut.
Japan: Mixed Signals | Driver Ranking: 35
A scrappy P19 in qualifying left him with work to do, but he climbed to P15 in the race, keeping the car clean and minimizing mistakes. Still room to sharpen one-lap execution.
Bahrain: Flashes of Pace | Driver Ranking: 53
Doohan qualified P11 his best Saturday so far — but Alpine’s race pace let him down, finishing P14. A mature, measured drive without incident, though not yet threatening the top 10.
Summary: Learning Quickly, Quietly Climbing
Doohan’s average race and qualifying position of P14 shows solid early adaptation. He’s outperforming the car on Saturdays and racing smartly on Sundays — a driver settling in and slowly finding his groove.
P18: #27 Nico Hulkenberg| Kick Sauber
Avg. Qualifying | Avg. Finish | Season Ranking | Driver Standing Points |
13 | 13 | 38 | 6 |
Australia: Early Season Bright Spot | Driver Ranking: 50
A composed and opportunistic drive saw Hülkenberg bring home P7 in Melbourne — capitalizing on retirements and executing a clean race while others faltered. It remains Sauber’s only top-10 finish so far.
China: Struggles Sink Progress | Driver Ranking: 34
Shanghai was a step backward. The car lacked pace all weekend, and Nico’s P15 finish reflected the limits of what was achievable. A forgettable race in a forgettable chassis.
Japan: Slipping in the Midfield Shuffle| Driver Ranking: 43
P16 in qualifying and the race marked another off-weekend. Hülkenberg struggled to find rhythm at Suzuka, with sector times showing a lack of confidence in high-speed corners.
Bahrain: Controversy and DSQ| Driver Ranking: 38
A strange sequence in Bahrain saw Nico advance to Q2 despite a procedural penalty that should’ve kept him in Q1. The situation worsened post-race when he was disqualified for plank wear, voiding what could’ve been a damage-limiting result.
Summary: One High, Several Lows
With a season rating of 38 and 6 points to his name, Hülkenberg remains a reliable driver in an underdeveloped package. But the highs of Australia are being overshadowed by operational errors and performance drop-offs.
P17: #18 Lance Stroll| Aston Martin
Avg. Qualifying | Avg. Finish | Season Ranking | Driver Standing Points |
13 | 13 | 40 | 10 |
Lance Stroll has had a rollercoaster start to 2025 — from wet-weather heroics in Australia to consecutive low-impact weekends in Japan and Bahrain. With 10 points and an average season rating of 40, he sits at P17 in our power rankings.
Australia: Storm Surge| Driver Ranking: 57
In Melbourne, Stroll narrowly trailed Alonso in qualifying but came alive in wet conditions, delivering a smart and opportunistic P6. His ability to extract pace in mixed conditions remains a clear strength — one of the few bright spots for Aston Martin early on.
China: Fortune Favours the Consistent | Driver Ranking: 55
Stroll brought the car home in P9 in Shanghai, taking advantage of the double Ferrari disqualification. He avoided trouble and executed a clean race — nothing flashy, but effective.
Japan: Downward Spiral| Driver Ranking: 33
Qualifying P20 at Suzuka marked a major step backward. He never looked hooked up, and his P20 finish reflected the lack of pace and confidence — a weekend to forget.
Bahrain: Still Off the Pace| Driver Ranking: 40
The slump continued in Sakhir. Stroll lined up P19 and could only recover to P18, showing little progress over the weekend. With Aston Martin struggling to match its 2023-2024 form, Lance hasn’t been able to rise above the car’s limitations.
Summary: Flashes of Form, But Flatlining
With a strong start fading into poor race weekends, Stroll is clinging to the lower midfield. His points total flatters his recent form — and unless he rebounds soon, questions around consistency will resurface.
P16: # 30 Liam Lawson| Racing Bulls
Avg. Qualifying | Avg. Finish | Season Ranking | Driver Standing Points |
15 | 15 | 41 | 0 |
Liam Lawson’s full-time return to the grid with Racing Bulls has been unspectacular. After a turbulent Red Bull stint, he now finds himself adapting to midfield combat — with mixed results. He sits at P16 in our rankings, just behind the veterans.
Australia: Rough Reintroduction | Driver Ranking: 39
A short-lived Australian GP saw Lawson exit in Q1, then hit the wall mid-race — a confidence-shaking return after a long layoff. The pace was off, the car twitchy, and the weekend ended early.
China: Scrappy but Fortunate| Driver Ranking: 34
Lawson was last in qualifying but climbed to P12 thanks to a trio of post-race disqualifications (Ferrari x2, Gasly). Not his finest outing, but he kept it clean and capitalized on chaos.
Japan: Team Battle Lost| Driver Ranking: 43
A return to form in qualifying with P14, just ahead of Tsunoda, showed promise. But he faded fast in the race, finishing P17 — behind his teammate and last among Bulls. Inconsistency remains an issue.
Bahrain: Solid Steps| Driver Ranking: 25
Lawson exited in Q1 once more but recovered well on race day. A consistent drive netted P13, his best finish so far and a sign that race rhythm is improving.His race saw a steady P18 in both qualifying and the race. No fireworks, but no costly errors either exactly what the team needed from a rookie.
Summary: Still Finding His Feet
Lawson’s season average of 41 reflects a driver still regaining confidence and consistency. The talent is there — he just hasn’t put a full weekend together yet. Still, he’s edging upward.
P15: # 31 Esteban Ocon| Haas F1
Avg. Qualifying | Avg. Finish | Season Ranking | Driver Standing Points |
11 | 11 | 43 | 18 |
Esteban Ocon’s move to Haas was met with surprise, but the Frenchman has already delivered flashes of class — especially on Sundays. With 18 points and a season rating of 43, he holds P15 in our rankings, outpacing expectations in an evolving package.
Australia: Steady Opener | Driver Ranking: 35
Melbourne was uneventful but tidy. Ocon qualified mid-pack and brought the car home in P13, avoiding incidents and giving Haas solid early data.
China: Standout Performance | Driver Ranking: 37
Shanghai was vintage Ocon — calm under pressure, strategically sharp, and fast when it mattered. A P5 finish marked his best result so far and showcased his ability to maximize opportunity in chaotic races.
Japan: Dip in Form| Driver Ranking: 53
Back to Earth in Suzuka. Ocon was outqualified by teammate Bearman and never found a rhythm. A P18 finish capped a forgettable weekend, and once again highlighted his struggle to extract qualifying pace this season.
Bahrain: Rough Start, Strong Finish| Driver Ranking: 43
Ocon spun and crashed out of Q2, but rebounded with a confident and composed drive to P8. He’s proving resilient on race day — a trend Haas will want to build on.
Summary: Inconsistent Saturdays, Impressive Sundays
Ocon’s form has been uneven, but his points tally tells the real story. He’s delivering where it counts: race day. If he can sharpen his qualifying edge, he’ll be knocking on the top 10 door regularly.
P14: # 87 Oliver Bearman| Haas F1
Avg. Qualifying | Avg. Finish | Season Ranking | Driver Standing Points |
11 | 11 | 43 | 6 |
Oliver Bearman’s true rookie season with Haas has quietly impressed. Despite early setbacks and a few qualifying struggles, he’s shown racecraft beyond his years. With 6 points and a consistent season rating of 43, Bearman slots into P14 in our rankings — just ahead of his more experienced teammate.
Australia: Rough Start, Solid Finish | Driver Ranking: 50
Hampered by gearbox issues in qualifying, Bearman started low but kept his nose clean in the chaos, finishing P14 behind Ocon. Not spectacular, but a respectable debut under pressure.
China: Making It Count | Driver Ranking: 59
Shanghai was Bearman’s breakout — a clean, confident drive to P8, scoring his first F1 points. His pace held up well across stints, and he looked every bit the part of a long-term asset.
Japan: Consistency on Display| Driver Ranking: 35
A strong qualifying put him P10, and he converted it into another points finish. No major mistakes, good tire management, and a steady hand under pressure — exactly what Haas needs in a rebuilding year.
Bahrain: Damage Control Masterclass| Driver Ranking: 43
A P20 in qualifying could’ve sunk his weekend, but Bearman delivered a composed and aggressive drive to P10, gaining ten spots and reinforcing his reputation as a Sunday fighter.
Summary: Smart, Measured, and On the Rise
Bearman’s early season form is marked by consistency and resilience. He’s outperformed expectations, kept pace with Ocon, and shown the makings of a future top-10 regular.
P13: # 55 Carlos Sainz| Williams
Avg. Qualifying | Avg. Finish | Season Ranking | Driver Standing Points |
12 | 12 | 45 | 12 |
Carlos Sainz’s switch to Williams has brought promise and problems in equal measure. The pace is clearly there, but a mix of bad luck and driver errors has limited his returns. With just 1 point and a season average of 45, Sainz lands at P13 in our rankings.
Australia: False Dawn | Driver Ranking: 35
Sainz looked sharp early, reaching Q3 and setting himself up for a strong debut with Williams. But a spin under safety car ended his race within the opening laps — a costly unforced error that nullified an otherwise strong weekend.
China: Point Salvaged from the Back | Driver Ranking: 49
A surprise Q1 exit in Shanghai (P15) was a major setback. Still, Sainz regrouped with a clean, calculated drive to P10, salvaging a crucial point and showing trademark race maturity.
Japan: Off the Boil| Driver Ranking: 52
Sainz qualified P12, again missing out on Q3 while teammate Albon advanced. He finished P14 after a nondescript race — struggling for grip and never quite in contention for the points.
Bahrain: From Hope to Heartbreak| Driver Ranking: 45
An impressive P8 in qualifying gave Williams reason to believe, but Sainz’s race unraveled after sustaining heavy contact. He was eventually forced to retire, ending another promising weekend without reward.
Summary: Momentum Elusive Despite Raw Pace
Sainz has shown glimpses of speed, but poor execution and unfortunate incidents have prevented him from stringing together a full weekend. If he can clean things up, the results should follow.
P12: # 14 Fernando Alonso| Aston Martin
Avg. Qualifying | Avg. Finish | Season Ranking | Driver Standing Points |
13 | 13 | 47 | 0 |
Fernando Alonso’s 2025 campaign has been plagued by misfortune and mediocrity. While the aggression and racecraft remain unmistakable, the machinery — and the scoreboard — haven’t backed him up. With 0 points and a season average ranking of 47, he sits at P12 in the rankings.
Australia: Ends in the Wall | Driver Ranking: 44
Alonso reached Q2 and looked punchy in the opening laps, but crashed out on lap 34, pushing too hard in a car that didn’t quite have the grip. A costly unforced exit to open the season.
China: Another DNF, Same Story | Driver Ranking: 46
P14 in Shanghai and ahead of teammate Hülkenberg, a small but significant step forward. No mistakes, clean execution, and improved consistency marked his most well-rounded weekend yet.
Japan: Still Fighting| Driver Ranking: 49
At Suzuka, Alonso showed the old fire. A P13 in qualifying translated to P11 at the flag, just outside the points — wringing every tenth from a car clearly on the back foot.
Bahrain: Sinking Further| Driver Ranking: 47
A disappointing P14 in qualifying set the tone for a frustrating race. With no pace to fight through the field, Alonso finished P17, well off the mark and visibly frustrated post-race.
Summary: Mastery Muted by Machinery, GP2 Chassis
Alonso hasn’t lost a step, but Aston Martin has. With two retirements and zero points, he’s hovering near irrelevance on the standings — not for lack of trying, but for lack of a car.
P11: # 6 Isack Hadjar| Racing Bulls
Avg. Qualifying | Avg. Finish | Season Ranking | Driver Standing Points |
11 | 12 | 47 | 4 |
Isack Hadjar’s rookie season has been one of promise marred by inconsistency. With 4 points and an average ranking of 47, he sits just outside the top 10, showcasing flashes of brilliance but lacking the consistency to move into the upper ranks
Australia: A False Start | Driver Ranking: 24
Hadjar’s weekend in Australia began with hope — a Q2 appearance and a near miss on Q3, just 0.06 seconds off. However, that was the peak of his race, as he spun out during the formation lap in wet conditions, ultimately leaving him with a DNS. A frustrating start.
China: Breaking Through | Driver Ranking: 50
Hadjar bounced back in China with a solid performance, securing his first Q3 appearance and qualifying P7. Although he couldn’t convert it into a points finish during the race, it was a promising step for the rookie, proving he could hang with the big guns.
Japan: A Strong Weekend| Driver Ranking: 64
In Japan, Hadjar replicated his Q3 success with another P7 start — the second-best of the Racing Bulls. He put in a strong drive to finish P8, just behind Hamilton, keeping pace with experienced drivers in a competitive field.
Bahrain: Struggles Continue| Driver Ranking: 51
Bahrain was more challenging. Despite a P12 qualifying, Hadjar couldn’t make significant progress in the race, ultimately finishing P16. It highlighted the difficulties he faced in extracting performance when conditions weren’t in his favor.
Summary: Growth Under Pressure
Hadjar has shown steady progress, with standout performances like in Japan and China, but inconsistency in qualifying and race results has kept him from higher rankings. The potential is there, but he’ll need to work on turning those flashes of brilliance into more regular performances.
P10: # 10 Pierre Gasly| Alpine
Avg. Qualifying | Avg. Finish | Season Ranking | Driver Standing Points |
10 | 10 | 51 | 6 |
Pierre Gasly’s 2025 season has been marked by solid performances, with his consistency and racing intelligence coming to the forefront. Despite a few mishaps and setbacks, he has managed to secure 6 points and a season average of 51, earning him P10 in the rankings.
Australia: Solid, But Not Enough | Driver Ranking: 55
Gasly started the season with a respectable P9 in qualifying, but couldn’t keep pace with the Ferraris and McLarens on race day. Despite a solid effort, a P11 finish showed that Alpine is still playing catch-up in terms of race pace.
China: A Nightmare Weekend | Driver Ranking: 30
Gasly’s weekend in China ended in disqualification after his car was found to be underweight, a costly mistake that ruined what was shaping up to be a relatively promising race. It was a bitter blow after a good qualifying performance
Japan: Just Off the Mark| Driver Ranking: 68
In Japan, Gasly missed out on Q3 by a slim margin, P11 in qualifying, only 0.039 seconds behind Q3. He couldn’t recover in the race, finishing P13 — a weekend of missed opportunities but not disastrous.
Bahrain: A Monster Result| Driver Ranking: 51
Gasly delivered a statement performance in Bahrain. P5 in qualifying was a huge surprise, and he followed it up with a well-executed race to finish P6. He overperformed expectations, delivering Alpine a crucial result and proving his skill in extracting everything from the car.
Summary: Consistency with Moments of Brilliance
Gasly may not have the flashy results of some of his peers, but his ability to extract solid results, especially in Bahrain, shows that Alpine can rely on him. The season has been up and down, but with his consistency, he’s firmly established himself in the midfield pack.
P9: # 22 Yuki Tsunoda| Red Bull Racing
Avg. Qualifying | Avg. Finish | Season Ranking | Driver Standing Points |
12 | 11 | 57 | 5 |
Yuki Tsunoda’s rise to Red Bull Racing has been a well received. With 5 points and a season average of 57, Tsunoda has shown that he belongs in the Red Bull fold, even if his performances haven’t always been flawless. His ability to rise to the occasion, particularly in Bahrain, earns him P9 in the rankings.
Australia: A Surprising Start | Driver Ranking: 61
Tsunoda’s P5 qualifying was a surprising performance in Australia, signaling his potential for a strong season. Unfortunately, his race didn’t match the pace of his qualifying result, and he could only manage a P12 finish. Still, the speed was there, and it hinted at the possibilities with Red Bull Racing.
China: A Frustrating Weekend | Driver Ranking: 53
In China, Tsunoda showed his resilience by making it to Q3 again. However, damage during the race slowed his progress, and he was unable to capitalize on the strong qualifying position. The P16 finish was a disappointment, but it didn’t take away from the fact that his performances were setting the stage for bigger things.
Japan: Home Grand Prix Struggles| Driver Ranking: 53
Tsunoda’s P15 qualifying for his home Grand Prix in Japan was not the ideal start, especially after making it to Q3 earlier in the season. To make matters worse, he was outqualified by ex-teammate Lawson. However, he rose to the challenge, making up places and fighting through to a P12 finish — a respectable result considering the challenges of driving the unruly Red Bull.
Bahrain: Proving His Worth| Driver Ranking: 61
In Bahrain, Tsunoda finally showcased his true potential in a car that was less than competitive. Despite the Red Bull not being strong in Bahrain, Tsunoda made his first Q3 appearance for the team and executed a well-paced race to finish P9. His performance was solid, demonstrating that his promotion to Red Bull Racing was justified.
Summary: Rising to the Occasion
Tsunoda has proven that he has the tenacity and skill to adapt to a top-tier team. His performances, particularly in Bahrain, show he has what it takes to fight in the upper midfield. The road ahead won’t be easy, but his progression from a promising junior to Red Bull Racing driver is well on track.
P8: # 23 Alexander Albon| Williams
Avg. Qualifying | Avg. Finish | Season Ranking | Driver Standing Points |
8 | 8 | 59 | 18 |
Alexander Albon’s 2025 season with Williams has been a showcase of consistency and efficiency. With 18 points and an average ranking of 59, Albon has proven to be one of the standout drivers in the midfield. His steady performances and ability to extract the most from his car earn him P8 in the rankings.
Australia: A Standout Weekend | Driver Ranking: 67
Albon’s qualifying result of P6 in Australia set the tone for a strong start to the season. He went on to secure a P4 finish in the race, staying competitive throughout and showcasing his ability to perform under pressure. His result was a clear indication of his talent and why Williams is glad to have him on board.
China: Solid Performance Amid Chaos| Driver Ranking: 58
In China, Albon delivered another strong result, qualifying in P8 and racing to a P7 finish, securing a valuable points haul. Even though the race was disrupted by multiple incidents, Albon stayed focused and capitalized on the chaos to bring home another points finish. His racecraft continues to impress as he maximizes the car’s potential.
Japan: Solid in Qualifying and Race| Driver Ranking: 61
In Japan, Albon once again found himself in the midfield, qualifying P9. His race was equally steady, and he finished ahead of teammate Sainz in what was a closely matched battle, mirroring the pace of Ferrari’s Hamilton. The ability to race on a similar level to a Ferrari driver showed Albon’s impressive consistency.
Bahrain: A Challenging Weekend| Driver Ranking: 49
Bahrain was a more challenging weekend for Albon, with a disappointing P16 qualifying result. However, this was a bit of a misrepresentation, as late penalties for other drivers meant he was unfairly knocked out of Q2 when he should have advanced. Despite this, Albon recovered to finish P12 in the race, making the most of a tough situation.
Summary: A Season of Consistency
Albon’s 2025 season is defined by consistency and strong racecraft. Whether it’s securing points finishes in challenging conditions or extracting the maximum from his Williams, Albon continues to impress. He remains one of the most reliable drivers in the midfield, proving that he can perform at a high level even without the best car beneath him.
P7: # 44 Lewis Hamilton| Ferrari
Avg. Qualifying | Avg. Finish | Season Ranking | Driver Standing Points |
6 | 7 | 64 | 25 |
Despite the competitive challenges Ferrari faces in 2025, Lewis Hamilton continues to prove his caliber, accumulating 25 points and securing a season average of 64. His adaptability and racecraft remain sharp, earning him a P7 ranking in this year’s power rankings.
Australia: Mastering the Elements| Driver Ranking: 63
Hamilton’s P6 qualifying in Australia was solid, but it was his racecraft that stole the show. Opting for slick tires in rainy conditions, he gambled for position and managed to finish in P10. Though it didn’t deliver a top result, it showcased his strategic thinking and experience, making the most of difficult circumstances.
China: Sprint Glory, Main Race Setback| Driver Ranking: 61
In China, Hamilton’s victory in the sprint race demonstrated his versatility, but the main race was marred by a disqualification due to an issue with his car. Despite the setback, his performance in the sprint underlined his strength, and it’s clear that, even in adversity, he can still extract significant results.
Japan: Steady Improvement| Driver Ranking: 66
Hamilton’s P8 qualifying in Japan was nothing special on paper, but his P7 finish was a testament to his ability to gain positions, especially on a track that favored strategy. As one of the few drivers to make progress through the field, Hamilton continues to be a consistent performer, showing his skill on tracks where others falter.
Bahrain: A Brilliant Recovery| Driver Ranking: 67
ahrain marked a more challenging weekend for Hamilton, with P9 in qualifying. However, his P5 finish in the race was a masterclass in recovery, making up positions and demonstrating why he’s still one of the best in the business. His racecraft and composure allowed him to capitalize on opportunities, even when Ferrari wasn’t the fastest car on track.
Summary: Experienced, Resilient, and Always in the Fight
Lewis Hamilton has not lost a step. Despite not always having the most competitive package, his ability to adapt, manage race strategies, and recover in difficult situations keeps him in the hunt. With his proven track record, Hamilton remains one of the most formidable drivers in the field.
P6: # 12 Kimi Antonelli | Mercedes
Avg. Qualifying | Avg. Finish | Season Ranking | Driver Standing Points |
6 | 7 | 65 | 30 |
Kimi Antonelli has been nothing short of impressive in his rookie season with Mercedes, accumulating 30 points and securing a season average of 65. His ability to bounce back from difficult situations and consistently deliver strong performances places him firmly at P6 in the rankings.
Australia: A Rocky Start, But a Strong Recovery| Driver Ranking: 58
Antonelli’s P15 qualifying in Australia was a tough beginning, knocked out in Q1 in what was a competitive session. However, his race was a testament to his composure and resilience. Despite a +5-second penalty, Antonelli fought hard and managed to finish in P5, showcasing his exceptional racecraft. It was an impressive recovery that set the tone for the rest of his season.
China: Consistency on Display | Driver Ranking: 64
In China, Antonelli showed his consistency with a solid P8 qualifying and a strong P8 finish in the race. He outperformed expectations in what was a tight midfield battle, further solidifying his status as one of the standout rookies of the year.
Japan: Continuing to Impress | Driver Ranking: 69
In Japan, Antonelli continued his strong run with a P6 qualifying and a finish just behind his teammate. With this performance, he showed that he is not just a one-hit wonder but a consistent competitor who is capable of handling pressure, particularly in tricky conditions.
Bahrain: Excellent Qualifying, But a Tough Race | Driver Ranking: 68
Bahrain offered another glimpse of Antonelli’s talent with a stellar P4 qualifying result. However, the race didn’t go as smoothly. Despite showing great pace, he couldn’t maintain his qualifying form and finished in P11, a disappointing end to a weekend that had shown so much promise. But even in his struggle, it was clear that he’s capable of more, making him one to watch closely.
Summary: A Rising Star with Unmatched Aggression
Kimi Antonelli has proven himself as one of the brightest talents in the sport. His aggressive racecraft and ability to recover from setbacks have already made him a fan favorite and a key player in Mercedes’ future. His combination of speed, resilience, and consistency places him firmly in the top ranks of this season’s drivers.
P5: # 16 Charles Leclerc | Ferrari
Avg. Qualifying | Avg. Finish | Season Ranking | Driver Standing Points |
4 | 5 | 68 | 32 |
Despite Ferrari’s ongoing struggles in 2025, Charles Leclerc has consistently delivered exceptional performances. With 32 points and a season average of 68, Leclerc continues to demonstrate why he’s one of the top drivers in F1, securing a well-deserved P5 ranking in the power standings.
Australia: Strong Qualifying, But Strategy Woes| Driver Ranking: 66
Leclerc came out strong in Australia, securing P4 in qualifying, showcasing his speed and ability to extract the most from the car. However, his race was marred by Ferrari’s questionable strategy, which ultimately hurt his race result. Despite the setbacks, his performance in qualifying was a reminder of his raw speed and adaptability.
China: A Disqualification Marred by a Strong Weekend| Driver Ranking: 53
In China, Leclerc’s race ended prematurely, as he was disqualified for an underweight car. Despite his P4 qualifying, the disqualification cost him a chance at a strong result, and it’s frustrating to see a promising weekend end in such an anticlimax. Nevertheless, his pace throughout the weekend proved that he was in the mix, and the disqualification was an unfortunate blip on an otherwise strong performance.
Japan: Best of the Rest| Driver Ranking: 73
In Japan, Leclerc showcased his tactical brilliance, qualifying in P4 and finishing as the best of the rest. With a P4 race finish, he made the most of the opportunities presented, capitalizing on mistakes from others and showing that, even in a difficult season for Ferrari, he can consistently be at the front of the midfield. His ability to extract the maximum from the car was evident.
Bahrain: Strong Qualifying, Defending Well Against Norris| Driver Ranking: 80
Leclerc’s P3 qualifying in Bahrain was another highlight of his season. He was once again the best of the rest, securing a strong grid position. Despite Norris’ strong charge, Leclerc defended admirably, holding his ground and finishing in P4. It was a result that showed his defensive skills and his ability to make the most of his Ferrari, even when outclassed by the top teams.
Summary: A True Racer with the Skill to Shine in Any Situation
Charles Leclerc has shown time and time again that he is one of the most talented drivers on the grid. With a combination of raw speed, tactical intelligence, and the ability to make the most of tricky situations, Leclerc has kept Ferrari in the fight. His results this season only further highlight why he deserves to be in the conversation with the best drivers in the world.
P4: # 63 George Russel| Mercedes
Avg. Qualifying | Avg. Finish | Season Ranking | Driver Standing Points |
3 | 3 | 76 | 63 |
George Russell has solidified his position as one of F1’s most consistent and reliable drivers, earning 63 points and maintaining a season average of 76. With podiums across the season and a series of impressive performances, Russell finds himself in P4, just behind the very best, but certainly not far from the top.
Australia: Podium Finish, A Consistent Performance| Driver Ranking: 66
Russell kicked off his season with a P4 qualifying in Australia and a strong P3 race finish. It was the kind of result we’ve come to expect from “Mr. Consistent,” who kept his head in a chaotic race and made the most of the opportunities, placing himself on the podium and setting the tone for the season ahead.
China: Another Podium, Another Show of Consistency| Driver Ranking: 53
In China, Russell demonstrated his ability to qualify well and convert that into race results. With a P3 qualifying and a P3 finish in the race, he proved that he’s not just a qualifying specialist, but also someone who can consistently challenge for podiums. He also managed to separate the McLarens, a testament to his ability to outshine his competitors in a tight midfield battle.
Japan: Solid, But Not Spectacular | Driver Ranking: 73
Russell had a more reserved outing in Japan, qualifying P5 and finishing in P5 in the race. While this wasn’t one of his standout weekends, it showcased his ability to stay competitive and finish in the points, even when the car wasn’t in prime condition. He did what was needed and secured solid points without taking unnecessary risks.
Bahrain: Battling Through Errors and Delivering a Strong Result| Driver Ranking: 80
Bahrain marked a standout performance from Russell, with a P2 qualifying and a P2 finish in the race. Despite dealing with errors related to the car’s race transponder, Russell showed exceptional skill and adaptability, managing the race like a seasoned pro. His ability to deliver a strong result under pressure, acting as both a driver and an engineer to work through the car’s issues, only further cements his reputation as one of the most capable and versatile drivers on the grid.
Summary: A Model of Consistency and Precision
George Russell has firmly established himself as one of the most reliable drivers in the sport. With his consistency in qualifying, racecraft, and ability to adapt under pressure, he is undoubtedly a top contender. His knack for regularly delivering podiums and strong finishes has kept Mercedes in the mix, making him one of the top drivers of the 2025 season.
P3: # 1 Max Verstappen| Red Bull Racing
Avg. Qualifying | Avg. Finish | Season Ranking | Driver Standing Points |
3 | 3 | 78 | 69 |
Max Verstappen continues to demonstrate why he’s one of the most talented drivers on the grid. With a season average of 78 and 69 points (nice), Verstappen has faced several challenges but still found a way to perform at the highest level, earning a P3 ranking in our power rankings.
Australia: A Close Chase, but No Overtake| Driver Ranking: 80
In Australia, Verstappen had a P3 qualifying and showed impressive pace throughout the weekend. He spent much of the race chasing Lando Norris, but despite his best efforts, Verstappen couldn’t manage to overtake the McLaren and finished P2. His drive was strong, but the race showed that even the best drivers sometimes face limits in competitive battles.
China: Consistent, But Limited by the Car| Driver Ranking: 74
Verstappen showed a better handle on the car in China compared to previous weekends, qualifying in P3 and finishing the race in P4. While he wasn’t able to challenge for the podium, it was a solid performance, especially considering the struggles Red Bull faced with car setup during the weekend. Verstappen’s ability to keep the car competitive, despite not having the pace for a top finish, was commendable.
Japan: A Pole Position and a Win | Driver Ranking: 96
In Japan, Verstappen bounced back with a P1 qualifying – an absolute standout, as he beat both McLarens to pole position. This showed the true quality of his driving, as he continued to adapt and extract the most from the car. His pace in the race was equally dominant, as he went on to secure a P1 finish, proving that when the car is dialed in, he remains one of the toughest competitors to beat.
Bahrain: Struggling, But Still Scoring Points| Driver Ranking: 67
Bahrain presented a challenge for Verstappen, as he struggled to get the most out of his Red Bull. A P7 qualifying left him in a less-than-ideal position, and the race was similarly tough, with Verstappen fighting his way to a P6 finish. While it wasn’t a standout result by his standards, it was a resilient drive, demonstrating his ability to salvage points even when things aren’t going his way.
Summary: Outperforming the car
Max Verstappen remains the premier driver on the grid, even when faced with difficult circumstances. While there have been some struggles, particularly in Bahrain, his consistent podium finishes, including a victory in Japan, demonstrate his exceptional skill and tenacity. Verstappen is still a force to be reckoned with, and despite some setbacks, he has managed to keep himself in the mix with the best.
P2: # 4 Lando Norris| McLaren
Avg. Qualifying | Avg. Finish | Season Ranking | Driver Standing Points |
2 | 2 | 85 | 77 |
Lando Norris has been nothing short of sensational this season, with an average 85 across the races so far. Norris has consistently been at the front of the pack, with his aggressive driving and adaptability making him one of the standout performers. His cool-headed approach to racing, paired with an impressive knack for getting the most out of his car, sees him sitting P2 in our rankings.
Australia: A Flawless Start to the Season| Driver Ranking: 100
Norris kicked off the season in spectacular fashion, not only claiming pole position but also converting it into a flawless P1 finish during the race. From the outset, Norris displayed poise and confidence, keeping his cool in difficult conditions and maintaining control throughout. It was a perfect demonstration of his talents, and one of the standout performances of the year.
China: A Recovery After Sprint Weekend Struggles| Driver Ranking: 74
While the sprint weekend in China didn’t go as planned for Norris, he showed great resilience in the main race. Despite being out of sorts in the sprint race, Norris regrouped and brought his car home in P2, despite the challenges the McLaren faced. His ability to recover, especially after a difficult weekend, further solidified his position as one of the best drivers in the field this season.
Japan: Near-Perfect, but Just Shy of Pole | Driver Ranking: 89
In Japan, Norris came incredibly close to securing pole position, missing out by just 0.01 seconds. Despite that, his P2 qualifying was still a remarkable effort. In the race, Norris battled fiercely, both on-track and in the pits, showing his exceptional racing intelligence and aggression. He finished in P2, after a tense and strategic battle, displaying his raw talent and racecraft.
Bahrain: Charging Through Despite Penalties| Driver Ranking: 76
Bahrain presented a rare challenge for Norris in qualifying, where he ended up in P6 – a result that was uncharacteristic for his usual qualifying performances. However, in the race, Norris showed why he’s one of the best. Despite being handed a +5 second penalty for a grid box violation at the start of the race, he charged through the field to secure a P3 finish, proving that he has the pace and tenacity to fight through adversity.
Summary: Has what it takes, lacks confidence
Lando Norris has firmly cemented himself as one of the top drivers this season. From his impeccable victory in Australia to his resilience in Bahrain, he has shown that he’s not just fast but also smart and adaptable. With an impressive P2 average finish and consistent results across the board, Norris is truly a force to be reckoned with.
P1: # 81 Oscar Piastri| McLaren
Avg. Qualifying | Avg. Finish | Season Ranking | Driver Standing Points |
2 | 2 | 87 | 74 |
Oscar Piastri has taken the F1 world by storm this season, showcasing his talent, precision, and composure under pressure. With an incredible 87 average across races, Piastri has become a force to be reckoned with, sitting at P1 in our rankings. From near-misses to podiums, his journey has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Australia: A Flawled Start to the Season| Driver Ranking: 80
Piastri’s season began with a dramatic fight for pole in Australia, where he came within 0.084 seconds of beating his teammate Norris. While he fell behind in the opening laps of the race, a rain-soaked lap 44 saw him lose even more positions. Despite a challenging race, Piastri’s determination and skill saw him recover to P9, earning valuable points. It was a solid start, but not quite the flawless performance we would later see.
China: Pole, Win!| Driver Ranking: 88
In China, Piastri proved his worth by securing pole position for the first time in his career. He didn’t just stop there—he went on to win the race, dominating the weekend with an all-around superb performance. Piastri made the most of his pole, executing a near-perfect race and netting a total of 32 points across both the main race and sprint. This win firmly placed him as one of the season’s most exciting prospects.
Japan: A Solid P3, but the Fight Was Real | Driver Ranking: 99
Japan presented a bit of a challenge for Piastri, as he struggled in sector one during qualifying, which saw him settle for P3. However, he showed remarkable consistency during the race, maintaining his position and finishing in P3 as well. Although he didn’t quite have the pace to challenge for victory, his calm and composed racecraft allowed him to secure solid points, keeping him firmly in the mix.
Bahrain: Masterclass Performance| Driver Ranking: 87
Piastri’s crowning moment came in Bahrain, where he not only claimed pole position again but also showed his race-winning pace. Defending expertly against George Russell, Piastri held onto P1 throughout the race, with a poised performance that had fans and critics alike praising his talent. He weathered the storm against Russell’s charge and took his second win of the season, securing a P1 finish and cementing his status as a future champion.
Summary: Rising Star on a Meteoric Trajectory
Oscar Piastri’s season has been one of steady growth, with each race revealing his true potential. With an 87 average and 74 points, he has proven that he’s not just a driver in the mix but a true contender. His ability to recover, dominate when necessary, and execute under pressure has made him one of the top talents on the grid.