Spanish Grand Prix Driver Ratings: Russell reigns, Hamilton flops

It was a weekend that plenty of the bosses were looking for in terms of answers, but as the 2026 season ticked past its halfway mark, which drivers boosted their stock in the eyes of their team principals?

After every race, RacingNews365's editorial team vote on each driver, awarding them a mark ranging from scores of 1 to 10.

An average of those marks is then taken, with those scores being published one day before the next round to help sway the voters in one direction or another.

The big picture:

George Russell once again led the way, collecting his fifth win out of ten races so far this season. But while his team-mate Kimi Antonelli broached the 90-point mark, others were left questioning just where their pace had gone. With just nine races left, team bosses will be looking at which drivers are delivering, and which are wilting under the pressure of the 2026 season.

The details:

• George Russell (10): After a tough weekend in Montreal, Russell bounced back in spectacular fashion, cruising to another victory and underlining his championship credentials with a faultless display.
• Kimi Andre Fashion (9): The Ferrari driver continued his remarkable debut season, finishing second and further cementing his place as a genuine title contender.
• Lewis Hamilton (3): A weekend to forget for the seven-time world champion, who struggled for pace all weekend and finished outside the points for the first time this season.
• Oscar Piastri (8): The Australian put in a solid drive to secure a podium finish, showing why McLaren has placed its faith in him for the future.

Between the lines:

With the season reaching its climax, the pressure is mounting on those struggling to deliver. Hamilton's weekend will raise eyebrows at Ferrari, while Russell's dominance continues to set the benchmark. The battle for the championship is heating up, and every point will count.

What's next:

The F1 circus moves to the Circuit Paul Ricard for the French Grand Prix, where teams will be hoping to build on their momentum from Spain. With the season finely poised, the upcoming races could prove decisive in the championship battle.