Antonelli or Hadjar—who do you think has been the most dazzling rookie so far this season? Today, let’s use a unique rookie points ranking system to evaluate them and summarize their performances across the first ten races. Don’t forget to like before we dive in!
First, let’s explain the rules of this rookie ranking. The definition of a rookie is a driver who has not yet completed a full F1 season. In total, there are seven rookies considered. This ranking has nothing to do with the official championship standings—it is based solely on their finishing positions, with points allocated from 1 to 6 each race, then totaled. You can pause to check the detailed rules if needed.
P7 – Doohan (32 rookie points)
The first to exit, Doohan was replaced after Imola. He competed in six race weekends, collecting 32 rookie points. His campaign included retirements in Australia and Miami, plus a practice crash in Japan caused by forgetting to close DRS. While he showed flashes, such as outqualifying teammate Gasly in Miami, overall his pace was inconsistent—averaging 0.271 seconds slower in qualifying—and his race pace lacked stability. Professionalism remained his bright spot, as he still contributed to the team after being replaced, but his F1 return now looks unlikely.
P6 – Colapinto (36 rookie points)
A mid-season substitute, Colapinto has only contested four weekends but already surpassed Doohan with 36 rookie points. His debut in Imola ended with a crash in qualifying, making him cautious in subsequent races. Still, he kept the car safe and delivered a standout performance in Canada, starting P10 after Hadjar’s penalty and beating Gasly. His one-lap pace and adaptability are promising, though inexperience shows in tire management and consistency. Whether his “five-race trial” continues remains uncertain, but he must perform under immense pressure to avoid becoming another seat casualty.
P5 – Bortoleto (52 rookie points)
Bortoleto, starting his F1 career with Sauber, has steadily collected 52 rookie points. His races have often been compromised by poor strategies aimed at offsetting Hülkenberg, alongside tire management issues. Despite this, he has shown stability, rarely making mistakes or causing accidents, and occasionally outqualifying Hülkenberg. His cautious driving limits overtaking chances, but he remains consistent. As an F3 and F2 double champion, he needs better strategies and more bravery to fully showcase his talent and chase points in the future.
P4 – Lawson (76 rookie points)
Lawson, who was briefly promoted before being sent back down, has 76 rookie points. His stint with Red Bull showed a huge gap to Verstappen, highlighting that his ambition exceeded his readiness. Returning to RB, he’s still behind teammate Hadjar. Multiple retirements in Australia, Miami, and Canada underline that beyond driving skill, rookies must also handle external factors. Away from Red Bull’s pressure, Lawson needs to rebuild confidence and consistency—or risk being replaced by Lindblad next year.
P3 – Bearman (101 rookie points)
The most experienced “rookie,” Bearman, who already had race starts last year, sits on 101 rookie points. He scored top-ten finishes in China, Japan, and Bahrain but has struggled in recent rounds. Penalties in Monaco (10-place grid drop) and Spain (10-second time penalty) hurt his results. Still, his strong races showed his ability to maximize performance and score points, with particularly exciting overtakes in China. Against Ocon, his qualifying gap is small, and under Komatsu’s leadership, the team environment is supportive. Improving consistency across circuits and conditions will be key.
P2 – Hadjar (119 rookie points)
The biggest surprise so far, Hadjar has exploded with potential. Initially dismissed after crashing during the warm-up lap of his debut, he has since delivered excellent performances, earning 119 rookie points and at one stage even leading the rookie standings ahead of Antonelli. He has also scored 21 official F1 championship points, ranking P10 overall. Hadjar’s standout strength is his maturity and stability compared to his F2 days. He has repeatedly reached Q3, averaging 0.267 seconds quicker than Lawson, and converted pace into race points. Overcoming public criticism from Marko early in the season highlighted his mental toughness. Outperforming both Lawson and Tsunoda, Hadjar has solidified his place in F1. If he maintains this form, a future with a top team is within reach.
P1 – Antonelli (122 rookie points)
No surprise: Mercedes’ wonderkid Antonelli leads with 122 rookie points, thanks to a podium in Canada and consistent brilliance. Despite two DNFs due to technical failures and some struggles in Monza qualifying, he has shown maturity beyond his age. His racecraft and ability to adapt quickly have been crucial in Mercedes securing P2 in the Constructors’ standings. Highlights include a stunning P4 in his debut Australian GP (starting P16), sprint pole in Miami, and his podium in Canada where he defended fiercely against McLaren under pressure. From points to poles to podiums, the next big milestone is surely his first F1 victory.
That’s the rookie ranking after 10 rounds. Does this list match your expectations? Who’s your pick for the standout rookie of the year? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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