Formula 1 has produced some of the most dramatic and tragic moments in sport since its birth in 1950. There have been 35 world champions out of the nearly 800 drivers who have started a Grand Prix. There have also been a host of characters and heroes who have transcended F1 and helped build its status as the biggest annual world championship on the planet.
The debate over who is the best of all time is both fun and impossible to answer. But that hasn't stopped Express Sport going back 76 years to compile a list of the 33 best drivers in F1 history.
33. Ronnie Peterson
Scandinavia's most successful F1 driver, the 'Superswede' was legendary for his raw pace and sideways, rally-style driving. Across nine seasons, he claimed 10 wins and 14 poles, twice finishing as championship runner-up despite frequent car reliability issues. Tragically, his life was cut short at 34 following a start-line crash at Monza in 1978.
32. Alan Jones
Jones was an uncompromisingly fast Australian who delivered Williams its first F1 world championship in 1980. Known for his aggressive, ruthless driving style, he scored 12 victories and 24 podiums across 116 starts, cementing the Frank Williams team as a genuine powerhouse.
31. Keke Rosberg
Known for his flat-out approach, Rosberg won the 1982 title with Williams despite winning just one race. He was arguably even stronger the following year, which included victory in a damp Monaco.
30. Jody Scheckter
After starting as a wild, aggressive charger with McLaren and Tyrrell, the South African matured into a shrewd, calculating champion. Across 112 starts, he took 10 wins and 33 podiums, culminating in his crowning achievement: winning the 1979 title driving for Ferrari.
