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Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes AMG F1 W10, leads Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing RB15, Charles Leclerc, Ferrari SF90 and Sebastian Vettel, Ferrari SF90
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Analysis

The defining traits that set F1’s best apart

What makes the very best drivers in Formula 1 stand out among what is already a highly elite bunch? Andrew Benson takes a closer look at those with the special blend of skill, judgment, feel and attitude that sets only a select few apart from the rest.

Who are the very best racing drivers in the world? The ones who, over a season, will get everything out of a car that it should give – and sometimes even a bit more.

It’s a question that generates endless debates among Formula 1 fans, but also one that the teams have to grapple with in a very real way. And in a sense, they settle it. For the teams are the ones with skin in the game, who have to put their money where their mouths are, and the ones with the most money speak loudest.

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