Liam Lawson has narrowly failed to climb above Lewis Hamilton in RacingNews365's driver ratings season average, despite his strong recent form. The young New Zealander currently holds an average score of 6.0 across the first 14 races, placing him 12th overall, just 0.1 behind Hamilton, who is enduring a challenging season.
Why it matters
Lawson's impressive performance, particularly since a suspension change in Austria, highlights his potential and has allowed him to rapidly ascend the driver rankings. Surpassing established names like Carlos Sainz and Esteban Ocon underscores his impact.
The details
- Lawson's Average: 6.0 (12th overall)
- Hamilton's Average: 6.1 (11th overall)
- Key Performances: Lawson secured a 9.5 in Austria (where he finished sixth), followed by two 8.0 scores in Belgium and Hungary. These strong showings significantly boosted his average.
- Ranking Logic: Lawson's 9.5 in Austria gives him the edge over drivers like Carlos Sainz, Esteban Ocon, and Oliver Bearman, who also have an average of 6.0.
- Tie-breaking Example: Esteban Ocon is ranked above Oliver Bearman, both with 6.0 averages, because Ocon has two 8.5 scores compared to Bearman's single 8.5.
The big picture
Lawson's current ranking among F1 drivers, even in a partial season, demonstrates his adaptability and speed. His consistent high scores post-Austria indicate he's a driver to watch for future seasons, potentially securing a permanent seat.
What's next
The full top 10 driver ratings from RacingNews365 are scheduled to be released on Sunday, August 17th.