Top 3 Drivers of the 2022 Formula 1 Season: A Comprehensive Analysis

As we approach the final four races of the 2022 Formula 1 season, it is a fitting time to reflect on which drivers have stood out the most this year. With the championship firmly wrapped up, this analysis provides a critical look at the top three drivers based on the 2022 season performance.

Third: Sergio Pérez

Once again, like in 2021, Sergio Pérez has demonstrated why he is worthy of the second Red Bull seat. While he has consistently been closer to Max Verstappen on aggregate, there have been instances where Pérez has outperformed Verstappen, especially on street circuits and tracks with slower corners. His determination and hard work in the face of doubters have been evident, particularly during the controversy surrounding The-Race event. Although Pérez still has a long way to go in terms of consistency to challenge Verstappen, he has been well within his zone of comfort. A second place in the standings would be a sweet bonus for the Mexican driver.

Second: Fernando Alonso

Fernando Alonso's inclusion in this list might come as no surprise given his historical impact, but his performance this season has been nothing short of exceptional. Despite being relegated to the midfield, he has continually outperformed his teammate and their direct rivals in McLaren. Additionally, the Alpine car has shown to be very competitive on one-lap pace compared to the top teams, potentially rivaling Mercedes.

Alonso's skill behind the wheel is evident, and if Alpine didn't suffer from reliability issues throughout the season, the battle for the fourth position in the constructors' standings would be Alonso's solo show. I firmly believe that Alonso still possesses the capability to transform a car that is at least second or third best into a title contender, similar to his 2012 performance. Should Aston Martin improve by the end of the current regulation cycle, we might witness the legendary Alonso with the top drivers. Conversely, if any of the top teams decide to sign Alonso, that scenario would also be exciting to watch.

First: Max Verstappen

Max Verstappen has been almost untouchable this season. Apart from a few races where he made minor errors, or if Red Bull hadn't faced reliability issues in the first few races, and if Verstappen wasn't unlucky in a couple of races, he would have likely clinched the championship earlier.

While Charles Leclerc and Sergio Pérez might lead in one-lap pace and low-speed cornering, respectively, Max Verstappen has consistently been a speed demon and a complete racer. Despite having the fastest car, Verstappen's ability to extract the best out of it makes him a standout performer. If Red Bull continues to maintain their pace through the 2026 regulations, it's not surprising that Verstappen might become a five-time World Champion.

Honourable Mentions

Charles Leclerc: While Leclerc has shown impressive pace in qualifying and skilled racecraft, there is still room for improvement. With his fifth season in F1 compared to Verstappen's eighth season, Leclerc needs to maintain his cool and improve his strategy department to ensure a competitive future.

Pierre Gasly: Despite driving for AlphaTauri, which can only fight for lower points on good days, Gasly has maximized these opportunities to build momentum. His potential move to Alpine could provide him with a new platform to continue developing.

Alex Albon: Scoring points with the worst car on the grid is a remarkable feat. Albon's continued success, even in challenging circumstances, highlights his enduring talent and potential for improvement.

George Russell: Russell has shown his skill in dragging the W13 into several podiums when the big four faltered. However, his recent decline in form and slipping behind Lewis Hamilton in the standings requires attention to maintain momentum and secure good positions.

Lando Norris: Being the only driver outside the top three teams to stand on the podium this season, Lando Norris has maximized the MCL36's potential. While he has shown some promising performances, he still lags behind Alonso in overall ability.

Sebastian Vettel: Vettel has managed to push the underperforming Aston Martin car into unexpected positions, including Q3 appearances and top points. His leadership for Aston Martin has contributed to their current standing in the constructors' championship.