Introduction to Driver of the Day
The "Driver of the Day" award is a fan-voted feature that adds an extra layer of excitement to each Formula 1 race. Despite not coming with any tangible prize beyond bragging rights, the recognition can be a significant achievement for any driver. Introduced in 2016 at the Australian Grand Prix, the award was first given to Romain Grosjean of Haas. Grosjean’s outstanding performance, where he started 19th and finished 6th, earning Haas their first points in their inaugural race, set a high standard for future recipients. This award has since become a cherished tradition, reflecting the fans’ appreciation for exceptional performances on and off the track.
Max Verstappen: The Most Decorated Driver of the Day
Max Verstappen has dominated the "Driver of the Day" category since its inception. His first award came in 2016 at the Spanish Grand Prix, where he secured his debut race win for Red Bull. At just 18 years and 288 days old, Verstappen became the youngest driver to win an F1 race and stand on the podium, breaking records previously held by Sebastian Vettel. Verstappen’s most recent accolade came in the 2024 Brazilian Grand Prix, where he navigated challenging wet conditions to move from 17th to first, further cementing his legendary status. With 41 "Driver of the Day" awards to his name, Verstappen has consistently demonstrated the skills and determination that make him a fan favorite.
Sebastian Vettel: A Close Second
Sebastian Vettel, the four-time world champion, is a close second in the "Driver of the Day" standings with 23 wins between 2016 and 2022. One of his most memorable moments came at the 2017 Hungarian Grand Prix, where he won the race but was penalized and subsequently dropped behind Lewis Hamilton. Vettel’s response to the penalty was one of his more memorable moments: he picked up the first-place sign from in front of Hamilton’s car and placed it in the empty spot where he had refused to park his Ferrari. This defiant act highlighted his competitive spirit and determination. Vettel’s last "Driver of the Day" award came at the 2022 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, his final race in F1, as fans showed their support for the retiring champion.
Notable Performances and Awards Over the Years
Since the introduction of the "Driver of the Day" award in 2016, several drivers have consistently impressed fans and earned the recognition. Max Verstappen’s 41 awards span various Grands Prix, including Spanish, Canadian, Austrian, British, Malaysian, Japanese, United States, and Brazilian. His most frequent wins came in high-stakes races, often under challenging conditions, showcasing his versatility and skill. Sebastian Vettel’s 23 awards include races in Australia, Bahrain, Spain, Monaco, Canada, Malaysia, Mexico, and more. His last few awards were particularly poignant, especially his final one at the 2022 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, marking the end of a storied career.
Other Notable Recipients
While Verstappen and Vettel dominate the "Driver of the Day" leaderboard, other drivers have also left their mark. Carlos Sainz, for instance, has won the award on multiple occasions, including notable performances at the French, Belgian, United States, and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix. Valtteri Bottas, despite being out of an F1 race seat for 2025, has also earned the recognition, particularly in races like the Emilia Romagna, Miami, Hungarian, Belgian, and the Netherlands. Bottas’ potential return to F1 with Cadillac adds an exciting dimension to his career, and fans will be watching closely to see if he can add more "Driver of the Day" awards to his tally.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Driver of the Day
The "Driver of the Day" award has become a beloved feature of Formula 1, providing fans with a way to recognize and celebrate exceptional performances. From Max Verstappen’s record-breaking 41 awards to Sebastian Vettel’s 23, the award has highlighted the skill, determination, and sportsmanship of many drivers. As the sport continues to evolve, this fan-voted feature remains a testament to the passion and engagement of the F1 community. Whether it’s a rookie making a name for themselves or a seasoned champion adding to their legacy, the "Driver of the Day" award ensures that exceptional performances are always remembered and celebrated.
