With just a few more weeks to go until the world’s fastest drivers come head-to-head at the Lusail International Circuit for the FORMULA 1 QATAR AIRWAYS QATAR GRAND PRIX 2023, time is ripe to get up-to-speed with the latest F1 rankings as the season reaches its midpoint. While motorsports enthusiasts in Qatar may have already singled out their top favorite contenders, those still relatively new to the sport can decide on who to root for based on the leading performances thus far.
Here’s a quick look at the drivers powering ahead in the 2023 F1 title fight:
Max Verstappen
Red Bull’s blockbuster talent, 25-year-old Dutch driver Max Verstappen is currently number one in the ongoing F1 battle. The reigning world champion has sealed 10 victories in the championship so far with a total of 314 points, cementing his position at the top of the 2023 F1 driver standings. A true testament to his awe-inspiring brilliance, Verstappen has clinched the DHL Fastest Lap Award of 2023 six times this season with the times: 1:20.504 in Hungary; 1:30.275 in Great Britain; 1:07:012 in Austria; 1:16.330 in Spain; 1:29.708 in Miami; 1:31.906 in Saudi Arabia.
Sergio Perez
Touted as the most successful Mexican driver in F1 history, Sergio Perez is right behind compatriot Verstappen in confirming Red Bull dominance throughout the 2023 F1 extravaganza. With two podiums to his name already, amassing 189 points so far in the season, in addition to two fastest laps in Australia (1:20.235) and Canada (1:14.481), the 33-year-old is one to watch for his mighty impressive race craft.
Fernando Alonso
Docked at number three in the 2023 F1 driver standings, as of now, Fernando Alonso has returned on the grid with Aston Martin this season, exhibiting the same valor, fierce speed, and calculated thinking that the Spaniard is known for in F1. Hauling a total of 149 points, the 41-year-old Double World Champion is in solid form to earn a podium finish over the remainder of the season.
Lewis Hamilton
Seven-time World Champion and one of the most celebrated drivers in F1, Lewis Hamilton is presently number four in the 2023 F1 driver rankings. With just one point below Alonso at 148, the 38-year-old Mercedes driver is putting in a breathtaking campaign and has already pocketed two fastest lap accolades in the championship: Monaco (1:15.650) and Belgium (1:47.305). Will the Briton be able to add to his 103 F1 victories is definitely something to look out for?
Charles Leclerc
Number 5 in the current F1 drivers’ classification, 25-year-old Charles Leclerc is a firm fan favourite for his racing skill. Driving for Ferrari, the driver has launched his team into fairly strong form, pulling in 99 points until now. His earnest consistency and inspiring competitiveness may bear greater fruit as the championship enters its next stages.
The 17th race of the 2023 Formula One World Championship is slated to take place in Qatar under the iconic floodlights of the Lusail International Circuit from October 6-8. Be sure not to miss the opportunity to view the F1 racing sensations live in Qatar by securing your tickets from the official website: https://tickets.lcsc.qa/
Image credit and written by Lusail International Circuit
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