Formula 1: Drivers with most laps lead in 2023 season

The 2023 Formula 1 season witnessed spectacular performances and unexpected twists, and one of the most compelling aspects was the number of laps led by each driver. This season wasn’t merely a competition of laps led; it was a narrative of resilience, strategic brilliance, and unexpected turns that defined the drivers’ journeys throughout the year. Now, let’s take a look at the drivers with the most laps lead in the 2023 season.

Oscar Piastri (1 Lap)

Oscar Piastri’s sole lap led during the Italian Grand Prix marked a significant moment in his season. Despite a challenging start, Piastri capitalized on mid-season upgrades, securing podium finishes and showcasing his potential in the highly competitive field.

Fernando Alonso (3 Laps)

Fernando Alonso’s three laps led during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix emphasized his exceptional skills and ability to outperform expectations. From podiums at the beginning of the season to challenging Max Verstappen in Monaco, Alonso proved that age is just a number.

Yuki Tsunoda (5 Laps)

Yuki Tsunoda’s five laps led during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix showcased the Japanese driver’s talent. Despite being unaware of his lead at the time, Tsunoda’s performance added a layer of intrigue to the race, ultimately finishing in eighth place.

By taking charge at the front for four laps between Laps 18 and 22, Tsunoda etched his name in history as the first Japanese driver to lead a Grand Prix since the legendary Takuma Sato accomplished the feat at the 2004 European GP.

George Russell (6 Laps)

Mercedes driver George Russell’s bold strategy at the Australian Grand Prix positioned him for potential victory, showcasing his prowess on the track. Although the strategy didn’t culminate in a win, Russell led six laps, leaving a lasting impression on the season.

Lewis Hamilton (13 Laps)

Lewis Hamilton faced a challenging 2023 season, marked by a second consecutive year without a Grand Prix victory. Despite the absence of wins, Hamilton’s ability to finish third overall highlighted his resilience and determination. The season served as a period of reflection for the seasoned driver.

Lando Norris (30 Laps)

Lando Norris orchestrated one of the most remarkable in-season turnarounds in Formula 1 history. After significant upgrades in Austria, Norris secured seven podium finishes and led 30 laps, showcasing his consistency and improvement throughout the season. Despite challenges in qualifying, Norris proved to be a formidable competitor.

Charles Leclerc (41 Laps)

Scuderia Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc faced numerous challenges in 2023, yet his skill shone through. Notably, his performance in the Las Vegas Grand Prix demonstrated his adaptability to new circuits. Although he finished P2 due to safety car timing, Leclerc’s ability to lead laps underscored his capabilities as a driver.

Carlos Sainz (77 Laps)

Carlos Sainz displayed outstanding performance throughout the 2023 season, particularly highlighted by leading 13 laps at Ferrari’s home race in Italy. Despite a challenging season finale in Abu Dhabi, Sainz concluded post-season testing as the fastest driver, underlining his potential for the upcoming seasons.

Sergio Perez (146 Laps)

Sergio Perez played a crucial role in Red Bull’s season, contributing to the team’s remarkable achievement of leading 95% of laps. With 146 laps led, Perez showcased his prowess behind the wheel of the Red Bull RB19, securing victories in Saudi Arabia and Azerbaijan. Despite ongoing retirement rumors, Perez expressed confidence in retaining his seat with Red Bull for the 2024 season.

Max Verstappen (1003 Laps)

Max Verstappen emerged as the undisputed leader, making history by becoming the first driver to surpass the 1000 laps led mark in a single season. The Dutch driver’s sheer dominance was evident as he finished the season with an impressive 75.7% of laps led, surpassing the previous benchmark set by Vettel in 2011. Verstappen’s strategic move during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where he allowed Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez to pit first, showcased his determination to achieve this remarkable feat.

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