Some F1 drivers are underrated despite their talent, here are those who deserve your attention in 2025.
Every season, F1 fans highlight drivers whose talent doesn’t get enough spotlight. The Race’s 2025 ranking reveals several names that, despite strong performances, remain under the radar. Here are ten underrated F1 drivers according to a survey of 2,028 respondents worldwide.
Alex Albon, the fans’ top choice in this category
The Williams driver leads the ranking with 17% of the votes. He is currently eighth in the championship with 70 points. Many praise his consistency and his role as a team leader within the British squad. He is also considered one of the friendliest personalities in the paddock. His talent is finally gaining some of the recognition it deserves.
Why Pierre Gasly, one of the underrated F1 drivers
Pierre Gasly then ranks second with 13% of the votes. The French Alpine driver has scored 20 points this season. He demonstrates a rare ability to maximize the performance of his car. Motorsport fans admire his tenacity and experience. His career has actually been impressive from the very start in Formula 1.
Nico Hülkenberg, consistency rewarded
The veteran German with Sauber confirms his status as an underrated F1 driver with no less than 10% of votes. Nico Hülkenberg has scored 37 points this season. He continues to impress with his exceptional longevity in F1. Many believe he deserves a more competitive car. Still, his experience remains a valuable asset for his team.
Gabriel Bortoleto, the surprise revelation
The Brazilian Sauber rookie makes a remarkable debut with 9% recognition. Already among the most underrated F1 drivers, he has scored 18 points this season. He shows obvious potential in his first laps in Formula 1. Experts see him as a future champion. His rapid adaptation is already astonishing the paddock.
Carlos Sainz, also part of the most underrated F1 drivers
The Spanish Williams driver maintains strong support with 8% of the votes. He has scored 31 points this season. Carlos Sainz then continues to prove himself as a complete and competitive driver. His recent podium in Baku also highlighted his immense skills, which raises questions about the driver market paradoxes.
Should George Russell get more recognition?
The famous George Russell shares sixth place with 6% of votes. The British Mercedes driver is fourth in the championship with 212 points. Some feel he competes in the shadow of his illustrious teammate. He has won a race this year and also achieved several podiums. The future looks bright for this underrated F1 driver.
Does Esteban Ocon deserve more consideration?
Tied with Russell at 6%, the French driver has scored 28 points this season with Haas. He demonstrates remarkable consistency since joining F1. Esteban Ocon‘s impressive qualifying performances regularly catch the eye. Many see his journey from junior formulas as truly exemplary.
Isack Hadjar confirmed his potential
Also in the top 10, Isack Hadjar earns a promising 5%. The young French Racing Bulls driver has actually scored 39 points in 2025. He represents the new generation of French drivers, and his recent Formula 2 successes highlight his immense potential. F1 could soon offer him a prominent place.
Yuki Tsunoda, the sharp drop for one of the underrated F1 drivers
The Japanese driver has fallen with only 4% of the votes. Red Bull’s Yuki Tsunoda scored just 20 points this season. This is surprising, given that he topped this ranking in 2024. It reflects the changing perception of fans, though his current performances still deserve recognition.
Ollie Bearman and his promising future
Last but not the least, Ollie Bearman closes the list with an honorable 3%. The Haas protégé scored 16 points this year. He notably impressed during his memorable replacement in Jeddah in 2024. Experts see early talent in him, and many consider him a future F1 star.