5. Jenson Button – 2011 Canadian Grand Prix
Starting from seventh on the grid, Jenson Button’s ride at the 2011 Canadian Grand Prix was a master class of skill and strategy. He fought his way up to second place before heavy rain forced the race to be halted.
After a two-hour delay, Button resumed the race in sixth place but managed several stunning overtakes, including a memorable pass to Sebastian Vettel to take the lead and win the race.
4. Max Verstappen – 2019 Brazilian Grand Prix
Max Verstappen started the 2019 Brazilian Grand Prix third on the grid and took the lead early before a collision with Lewis Hamilton dropped him to the back of the field.
However, the Dutchman put on an unforgettable display of skill and determination to fight his way through the field and eventually overtake Hamilton on his way to the checkered flag. Perhaps it was the performance that raised the status of Verstappen’s championship claim from ‘potential’ to ‘inevitable’.
3. Fernando Alonso – 2012 European Grand Prix
Fernando Alonso’s genius was evident from the start of his career and this race at the 2012 European Grand Prix proved it in no uncertain terms. Starting from 11th on the grid, Alonso drove forward with calculated precision and made optimal use of a safety car to move up to second place.
A series of breathtaking laps at the end saw him take the win by over six seconds, leaving the crowd and his colleagues speechless.
2. Lewis Hamilton – British Grand Prix 2008
It is said that the true elite drivers come to the fore in the wet and Lewis Hamilton certainly placed himself in that category at the 2008 British Grand Prix. Starting from fourth, he quickly jumped to second place before rain fell across the Silverstone circuit. In extremely challenging conditions, Hamilton’s superior handling and driving skills were palatable.
With a phenomenal drive, he lapped the entire field to third place and crossed the finish line over a minute ahead of his nearest rival. It was a stunning performance that saw Hamilton make the step up to F1 greatness.
1. Michael Schumacher – 2004 Hungarian Grand Prix
Michael Schumacher’s performance at the 2004 Hungarian Grand Prix was a display of complete and utter dominance. Starting from pole position, the legendary German led every lap and lapped all but the top three cars. He finished over 15 seconds ahead of second place.
It was the perfect rider in a dominant season that saw him claim his seventh and final world title.
