Verstappen Led Most Laps in 2025, Voted Best Driver by Peers

Max Verstappen narrowly lost the 2025 Formula 1 championship to Lando Norris by just two points, but his dominant season was reflected in the year-end statistics. The Dutchman led the most laps of any driver and was voted the best of the year by his fellow drivers and team bosses, capping off a stunning comeback from a 104-point deficit.

Why it matters:

• Verstappen's ability to fight back from such a significant deficit to nearly steal the title showcases his relentless driving style and resilience.
• Leading the most laps despite not winning the championship illustrates the razor-thin margins that decide F1 titles, often coming down to consistency and a few key race results.
• Being voted the best driver by his peers and bosses is a powerful testament to his skill, especially when he fell just short of the ultimate prize.

The details:

• Laps Led: Verstappen finished the season with 454 laps led, narrowly edging out McLaren's Oscar Piastri, who led 452.
• Champion's Tally: The eventual champion, Lando Norris, led the third-most laps with 373.
• The Rest of the Field: George Russell was the only other driver to break the 100-lap mark (103), followed by Charles Leclerc (48), Kimi Antonelli (11), Lewis Hamilton (2), and Alexander Albon (1).
• Peer Recognition: In a separate poll, Verstappen was named the top driver of 2025 by both his fellow drivers and F1 team principals.

Looking Ahead:

Verstappen's 2025 campaign, despite falling short of the title, solidifies his status as the benchmark driver in Formula 1. As the grid heads into the 2026 season with new regulations, the Dutchman will undoubtedly be the favorite, armed with the motivation of a near-miss and the unwavering respect of the paddock.