It is impossible to compare F1 drivers of different generations, says Formula One chief executive Bernie Ecclestone. But an annual ranking of the single-seat auto racing tournament's top drivers is imperative and is always sought by fans. This report on driver standings is based on Formula 1's official website and the drivers' individual performance at World Championship.
The year 2016 definitely belongs to German driver Nico Rosberg of the Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team. The Daily Telegraph puts the 31-year-old fifth on its annual ranking of top F1 drivers. Considered as one of Formula One's fierce competitor, Rosberg had amassed 385 points, based on his 2016 F1 World Championship Driver's standings. His retirement this year is still a mystery to many.
Rosberg's teammate Lewis Hamilton comes second, with 380 points. The British driver has been praised this year for becoming solid and speedy. The three-time champion is ranked first by the Telegraph. Another ranking by Top Gear placed Hamilton at second, next to Max Verstappen. Hamilton boasts of 53 Grand Prix wins and 61 pole positions.
Red Bull Racing's Daniel Ricciardo is at third, with 256 points. The Australian driver won the British Formula 3 Championship in 2009. He is also third in Top Gear's ranking while the Telegraph puts him on sixth. Ricciardo is cited for his impressive maiden season with Red Bull.
Ferrari has two drivers in the F1 drivers ranking including Sebastian Vettel and Kimi Raikkonen. According to Top Gear, Vettel is still an absolute great driver. The website highlights the impact on Vettel's career of the mid-season departure of Ferrari technical director James Allison. Meanwhile, perennial fan favorite Raikkonen is still a force to reckon.
McLaren's Fernando Alonso is tenth in the ranking of top F1 drivers. The Spanish continues to dominate as the sharpest racing driver in the world. His 2016 race results prove that he still has the absolute determination never to give up.
The video below presents a countdown of the Top 10 drivers in the 2016 Formula One Season. Share your thoughts on the article in the comment section.
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