POWER RANKINGS: Which Driver’s on Top After the Montreal Madness?

The Canadian Grand Prix at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal delivered thrilling action, intense battles, and surprising outcomes, shaking up the F1 power rankings. Here’s a look at which drivers have climbed to the top and who’s been left scrambling after the Montreal madness.

1. Max Verstappen (Red Bull Racing)

Previous Rank: 1 Verstappen’s dominant performance in Montreal solidified his status as the man to beat this season. His flawless driving and strategic acumen ensured he stayed ahead of the pack, extending his lead in the championship standings. With Red Bull’s formidable car and Verstappen’s relentless form, he remains the driver to beat.

2. Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team)

Previous Rank: 3 Hamilton showed his true mettle in Montreal, delivering a masterclass in racing. His podium finish has propelled him up the rankings, reminding everyone why he’s a seven-time world champion. Mercedes’ upgrades appear to be paying off, making Hamilton a serious contender once more.

3. Sergio Perez (Red Bull Racing)

Previous Rank: 2 Perez had a solid, if unspectacular, race in Montreal. While he didn’t quite match Verstappen’s pace, his consistent point-scoring keeps him in the upper echelons of the rankings. Perez’s role as the perfect wingman to Verstappen is crucial for Red Bull’s constructor’s title ambitions.

4. Charles Leclerc (Scuderia Ferrari)

Previous Rank: 4 Leclerc’s tenacity in Montreal saw him fight through the field to secure valuable points. While Ferrari’s pace still lags behind Red Bull and Mercedes, Leclerc’s driving skill ensures he remains a formidable presence on the grid. A podium finish seems within reach if Ferrari can unlock more speed from their car.

5. Lando Norris (McLaren)

Previous Rank: 5 Norris continues to impress with his consistency and speed. His performance in Montreal, battling with the front runners, has solidified his reputation as one of F1’s brightest young talents. McLaren’s upgrades are bearing fruit, and Norris is capitalizing on every opportunity.

6. George Russell (Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team)

Previous Rank: 6 Russell’s race in Montreal was a mix of highs and lows. Despite some setbacks, he showcased resilience and skill, earning crucial points for Mercedes. Russell’s talent is undeniable, and with more experience, he’s set to be a future world champion.

7. Carlos Sainz (Scuderia Ferrari)

Previous Rank: 7 Sainz had a challenging weekend in Montreal but managed to salvage points. His ability to adapt and push the car to its limits is commendable. As Ferrari continues to develop their car, Sainz is expected to be a key player in their resurgence.

8. Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One Team)

Previous Rank: 8 Alonso’s veteran experience shone through in Montreal. He remains a consistent point-scorer and a vital asset to Aston Martin. His racecraft and strategic thinking are unparalleled, keeping him firmly in the top ten.

9. Pierre Gasly (Alpine F1 Team)

Previous Rank: 10 Gasly’s strong performance in Montreal has boosted his ranking. He showed great pace and determination, securing important points for Alpine. Gasly continues to prove his worth as a top-tier driver.

10. Esteban Ocon (Alpine F1 Team)

Previous Rank: 9 Ocon had a solid race but was slightly overshadowed by his teammate Gasly. Nevertheless, his consistent performances and ability to capitalize on race-day opportunities keep him in the top ten.

Honorable Mentions

• Valtteri Bottas (Alfa Romeo Racing): Bottas had a commendable race, showing flashes of brilliance.
• Sebastian Vettel (Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One Team): Vettel’s experience and racecraft were evident, although he missed out on the top ten.

As the F1 season progresses, these rankings will continue to evolve. The Montreal Grand Prix has set the stage for an exciting battle ahead, with drivers pushing their limits and teams striving for every possible advantage. Stay tuned for more high-octane action and dramatic shifts in the power rankings!