Max Verstappen remains the youngest driver to ever win a Formula 1 Grand Prix. His record stands since 2016 when he won the Spanish Grand Prix at just 18 years, 7 months, and 15 days, driving for Red Bull Racing. Verstappen’s victory marked a significant moment in his career as he showcased his talent by fending off fierce competition from drivers such as Kimi Raikkonen.
Kimi Antonelli in the Spotlight
As of now, the Italian driver Kimi Antonelli, aged 19, is on pole position for the upcoming Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai. A victory for him this weekend could elevate him to the second spot on the list of the youngest Formula 1 race winners, just behind Verstappen.
Youngest Formula 1 Winners List
Here’s a breakdown of the top ten youngest Formula 1 drivers to win a race:
- Max Verstappen – 18 years, 7 months, 15 days (Spain, 2016, Red Bull Racing)
- Sebastian Vettel – 21 years, 2 months, 11 days (Italy, 2008, Toro Rosso)
- Charles Leclerc – 21 years, 10 months, 16 days (Belgium, 2019, Ferrari)
- Fernando Alonso – 22 years, 0 months, 26 days (Hungary, 2003, Renault)
- Troy Ruttman – 22 years, 2 months, 19 days (Indianapolis, 1952, Official Championship)
- Bruce McLaren – 22 years, 3 months, 12 days (USA, 1959, Cooper-Climax)
- Lewis Hamilton – 22 years, 5 months, 3 days (Canada, 2007, McLaren)
- Oscar Piastri – 23 years, 3 months, 15 days (Hungary, 2024, McLaren)
- Kimi Raikkonen – 23 years, 5 months, 6 days (Malaysia, 2003, McLaren)
- Robert Kubica – 23 years, 6 months, 1 day (Canada, 2008, BMW-Sauber)
Note that Troy Ruttman’s win at the 1952 Indianapolis 500 is included as it was part of the official World Drivers’ Championship season.
Who Could Break the Record?
Currently, the only driver on the F1 grid who has the potential to surpass Verstappen’s record is Arvid Lindblad, a rookie with the Racing Bulls team. He will turn 19 on August 8 this year, which means his window to achieve a victory is narrowing. Lindblad would need to secure a win in the near future to claim the title of the youngest F1 race winner.
As the racing season progresses, eyes will be on Antonelli and Lindblad as they chase historic achievements in Formula 1 racing.
