Our notebook from the first part of the F1 season

1. Max Verstappen : Editor's rating 8,43 – Reader's rating 7,91

Facing his teammate Sergio Pérez, his domination is even stronger than in 2023. The Dutchman leads 17-0 in qualifying, and only finished once behind the Mexican in the race, when he had let him go two victories last year. It is, on the other hand, against external competition that the margin has been reduced. The Batavian was less sovereign and made more errors under increased pressure. This explains his rating, down almost half a point compared to 2023, but the three-time world champion still delivered a grandiose first part of the season, with 7 victories and 8 pole positions (including 7 in a row ). Although he is the driver best rated by the editorial staff, readers only placed him 3rd in their ranking.

2. Lando Norris : Editor's rating 7,79 – Reader's rating 8,28

Congratulations from the jury for the Briton, first in class among readers. The Englishman had a very good first part of the season, notably winning his first Grand Prix victory in Miami. His metronome consistency (he only has one podium less than Verstappen) still allows him to dream of a hypothetical Drivers' championship title at the end of the campaign. Without some damaging and recurring driving errors, particularly on starts, the Bristol native would be even closer to the Dutchman in the championship. Even if its performance