A major fan survey has revealed the current hierarchy of popularity on the Formula 1 grid, with Lewis Hamilton ranking only fourth despite his status as a seven-time world champion. The poll, conducted by The Race as part of its 2025 F1 Fan Census, offers a clear snapshot of how supporters view the drivers who light up the championship.
Oscar Piastri topped the list, underlining the rapid rise of the new generation, while several established stars found themselves further down the order than many might have expected.
THE FULL TOP 10 MOST POPULAR DRIVERS
According to the fan census, the ten most positively viewed drivers on the grid were ranked as follows:
- Oscar Piastri (McLaren)
- Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin)
- Charles Leclerc (Ferrari)
- Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari)
- Max Verstappen (Red Bull)
- Lando Norris (McLaren)
- Carlos Sainz Jr (Williams)
- Alex Albon (Williams)
- George Russell (Mercedes)
- Ollie Bearman (Haas)
The results immediately sparked debate across social media, reflecting the passionate and often divided nature of the Formula 1 fanbase.
WHY PI ASTRI TOPPED THE POLL
Oscar Piastri’s position at number one highlights how quickly the Australian has captured the imagination of fans. Since his debut, he has combined calm racecraft, strong results and an understated personality that many supporters find refreshing. At a time when McLaren has returned to the front of the field, Piastri’s steady rise has made him one of the most liked figures on the grid.
His ranking above more established names suggests fans are increasingly drawn to the next generation of talent rather than relying solely on historical achievement.
HAMILTON’S FOURTH-PLACE FINISH RAISES EYEBROWS
Lewis Hamilton’s position in fourth will surprise some observers. As the most successful driver in Formula 1 history and a global superstar, Hamilton has long commanded one of the largest fanbases in the sport. His move to Ferrari only increased his visibility.
Yet the poll indicates that popularity is not determined by trophies alone. Factors such as current form, on-track narrative, media presence and generational appeal all play a role. Hamilton remains firmly inside the top five, but the result shows that even icons must continually reconnect with a changing audience.
THE ENDURING APPEAL OF ALONSO AND LECLERC
Fernando Alonso’s second-place ranking is a testament to his remarkable longevity and fighting spirit. More than two decades after his debut, the two-time champion continues to earn respect and affection for his racecraft and never-say-die attitude.
Charles Leclerc’s third place reflects his status as one of the purest talents of his generation. Despite Ferrari’s fluctuating form, the Monegasque’s qualifying speed and emotional connection with fans have kept him among the most popular drivers on the grid.
WHAT THE LOWER TOP-10 PLACES REVEAL
Max Verstappen’s fifth-place finish is notable for a driver who has dominated the championship in recent years. While his success is undeniable, polarising opinions about his aggressive style appear to have influenced his standing in a pure popularity contest.
Lando Norris, Carlos Sainz, Alex Albon, George Russell and Ollie Bearman complete the list, showing a healthy mix of established performers and rising talents. Bearman’s inclusion at number ten is particularly striking given his relative inexperience and underlines the excitement surrounding the newest British prospects.
WHY FAN POPULARITY MATTERS IN MODERN FORMULA 1
In today’s Formula 1, popularity carries tangible value. Drivers with strong fan support help drive engagement, merchandise sales, social media reach and broader interest in the sport. Teams and sponsors pay close attention to these metrics when evaluating marketability alongside pure performance.
The census results also serve as a reminder that the fanbase is evolving. Younger drivers who combine results with relatability are increasingly competitive with the sport’s traditional superstars.
THE BIGGER PICTURE AFTER THE RANKINGS
Popularity polls are snapshots rather than definitive rankings of greatness. Hamilton’s place in history remains secure regardless of where he sits in a fan survey. Likewise, Piastri’s top ranking reflects current sentiment more than a final judgement on careers still very much in progress.
What the results do confirm is that Formula 1’s audience is engaged, opinionated and willing to elevate new heroes. As the 2026 season continues, it will be fascinating to see whether on-track developments shift these standings — or whether the current hierarchy of fan affection is here to stay.
