Not Michael Schumacher, Nor Lewis Hamilton – Who is the Real F1 GOAT?

For years, fans and pundits have compared F1 drivers of all generations. Lewis Hamilton and Michael Schumacher, of course, have won the most championships in the sport’s history. However, as data analytics’ influence has increased over time, fans are looking at finer margins to define a driver’s credibility from different generations.

For example, the points at stake and the number of races are more when compared to a few decades ago. So, based on average points per race using the current point system for drivers with more than 25 race entries, Juan Manuel Fangio is statistically the best driver in F1 history.

Fangio was an incredible driver and a one-off, much loved by fans all over the world. With five F1 world titles, he is considered a revolutionary for the sport. According to this stat, the Argentinian has 19.8 points per race, over 2 points more than the second place Jackie Stewart (17.6)

The ‘El Maestro’ won 5 titles with 4 different teams. He also holds the highest winning percentage in Formula 1, with 46.15% and is the oldest driver to win a championship at 46 years old. Representing the likes of Ferrari, Alfa Romeo, Mercedes-Benz and Maserati, Fangio entered 58 Grand Prix.

Interestingly, in his seven years in F1, he has never finished below 2nd in the championship. 35 podium finishes, 24 wins in 58 entries is an astonishing record.

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His rival Stirling Moss revealed why Fangio always had the best car “Because he was the best bloody driver! The cheapest method of becoming a successful Grand Prix team was to sign up Fangio,”  he said.

How does Lewis Hamilton and the rest compare to Fangio?

Lewis Hamilton, like Fangio, has broken several records in Formula 1. He has the most career wins, most pole positions, most career points and many more. However, he finds himself placed 5th on the list. He averages 16.8 points per race. This is arguably an incredible achievement since this is his 16th year in F1.

Longevity and success are a rare feat in F1, but much like Hamilton, Michael Schumacher can relate to it. He broke the long-standing championship record held by Fangio when he won his 6th title in 2003. The Ferrari legend, however, is only placed at 9th with 16.1 points per race.

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3rd place belongs to Ayrton Senna who is followed by Alain Prost. Meanwhile, Red Bull’s very own star boy, Max Verstappen, finds himself at 14th with 14.2 points per race. Former Red Bull star boy, Vettel is 20th and he has 13 points per race to his name.

The list, however, indicates Fangio is statistically F1’s best driver. What are your thoughts on this?