69 of the Most Famous Race Car Drivers of All Time

1. Dale Earnhardt

Dale Earnhardt represents, for many race car fans, the pinnacle of excellence. Earnhardt started his legendary career in 1975 at the World 600, which was held at the Charlotte Motor Speedway as part of the Winston Cup Series (today the Sprint Cup Series).

From there, Earnhardt won a total of 76 Winston Cup races, including 34 victories at Daytona International Speedway (and one Daytona 500), the most of any racer. He also earned seven NASCAR Winston Cup Championships.

His aggressive — some claim dangerous — driving style earned him the nickname "The Intimidator."

Earnhardt died Feb. 18, 2001, at the Daytona International Speedway, when he crashed on the very last lap of the race. Earnhardt has since been inducted into numerous halls of fame, including the very first class of the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

2. Richard Petty

Richard Petty, nicknamed "The King," raced in the Grand National era of the NASCAR Winston Cup Series. He won the NASCAR Championship a record seven times (tied for most wins with Dale Earnhardt and Jimmie Johnson) and won a record 200 races during his career.

Richard Petty also won the Daytona 500 a record seven times and won a record 10 consecutive races in the 1967 season. Statistically, Petty is still the most accomplished driver in the history of NASCAR, and he remains one of the most respected figures in motorsport.

His other accomplishments included winning a record number of pole positions (127) in stock car racing and over 700 Top 10 finishes in his 1,184 starts, including 513 consecutive starts from 1971 to 1989.

3. Junior Johnson

Junior Johnson wasn’t just a NASCAR champion; he was a pioneer. Before dominating on the track, he was a moonshine runner, and those bootlegging skills translated directly into racing success.

Johnson claimed 50 Cup Series wins as a driver, but his greater impact came as a team owner and innovator. He was one of the first to understand the importance of aerodynamics, helping change the game for future racers.

4. Bill France Sr.

If NASCAR had a founding father, it would be Bill France Sr. In 1947, France spearheaded the creation of NASCAR, establishing the rules and organization that would transform a regional sport into a national sensation.

His vision brought legitimacy and structure to stock car racing, and as the sport's first president, he laid the groundwork for what would become one of the biggest motorsports leagues in the world.

"Big Bill" was more than just a driver; without France's ambition and foresight, NASCAR simply wouldn’t exist as we know it.

5. David Pearson

Nicknamed "The Silver Fox" for his cunning race strategy, David Pearson was one of the most talented and efficient drivers to ever hit the track. With 105 wins and three Cup Series championships, Pearson was a master of knowing when to push and when to hold back.

His rivalry with Richard Petty is one of the greatest in NASCAR history, with the two trading victories throughout their careers. Pearson may not have raced full-time as long as others, but his win percentage speaks for itself; he was simply that good.

6. Cale Yarborough

Cale Yarborough was a tough, fearless competitor with a fighting spirit, both on and off the track. Known for his relentless driving style, he became the first driver in NASCAR history to win three consecutive Cup Series championships from 1976 to 1978.

With 83 career victories, Yarborough was a dominant force in the 1970s and early '80s, always pushing the limits. His tenacity and fierce rivalries made him one of the most respected and feared drivers of his era.

7. Darrell Waltrip

Darrell Waltrip brought personality and flair to NASCAR like few others. A three-time Cup Series champion, Waltrip's 84 career wins and memorable on-track battles made him a fan favorite.

Known for his outspoken nature and colorful commentary, he helped bring a new level of charisma to the sport. Whether he was rubbing fenders or calling the races from the broadcast booth, Waltrip’s impact on NASCAR has been felt in more ways than one.

8. Bobby Allison

Bobby Allison's racing resume is nothing short of legendary. With 84 career wins, including three Daytona 500 victories, Allison was a force to be reckoned with.

Known for his versatility on all types of tracks, he was one of the original members of the "Alabama Gang," a group of drivers from Hueytown who dominated in the 1970s. Allison's battles with rival Darrell Waltrip and the tragedies that struck his family cemented his place as one of NASCAR’s all-time greats.

9. Herb Thomas

Herb Thomas was NASCAR's first two-time champion, winning titles in 1951 and 1953. With 48 victories in only 228 starts, his win rate was staggering. Thomas was a key figure in NASCAR’s early days, setting the standard for future champions with his consistency and adaptability on the track.

His career may have been cut short due to injuries, but his dominance in the sport's formative years helped pave the way for future generations of drivers.

10. Tim Flock

Tim Flock was one of the sport’s most colorful characters in its early days. Flock won two Cup Series championships in 1952 and 1955, but he's perhaps best known for racing with a rhesus monkey, Jocko Flocko, riding along in his car.

While his driving antics were legendary, so was his skill. Flock’s 39 career victories and mechanical expertise made him one of the top drivers of his era. He brought a mix of entertainment and serious talent to the track.

11. Lee Petty

Before his son Richard Petty became "The King," Lee Petty was the man to beat. As one of NASCAR's original stars, Lee won three Cup Series championships and was the first driver to win the Daytona 500 in 1959.

With 54 career victories, he set the foundation for the Petty family dynasty in racing. Lee Petty was known for his business-like approach to racing, which helped him stay competitive for more than a decade.

12. Ned Jarrett

Ned Jarrett earned the nickname "Gentleman Ned" for his clean and calculated driving style. A two-time Cup Series champion in 1961 and 1965, Jarrett was known for his smoothness behind the wheel and his respect for fellow drivers.

With 50 career wins, he was a consistent contender in his era, but he's equally remembered for his successful transition to the broadcast booth, where his knowledge and insight helped elevate NASCAR's television coverage.

13. Buck Baker

Buck Baker was one of the toughest drivers to ever compete in NASCAR. With a career that spanned three decades, Baker won back-to-back Cup Series championships in 1956 and 1957, accumulating 46 career wins along the way.

His aggressive driving style made him a fierce competitor, and his longevity in the sport was impressive. Baker also played a pivotal role in mentoring young drivers, including his son Buddy Baker, who became a star in his own right.

14. Fireball Roberts

Glenn "Fireball" Roberts was one of NASCAR’s first true superstars, known for his speed and charisma. With 33 career victories, including the 1962 Daytona 500, Roberts had a natural talent that earned him legions of fans.

His nickname came from his pitching arm in baseball, but it applied just as well to his blazing fast driving style. Tragically, Roberts' career and life were cut short in a fiery crash in 1964, but his legacy as one of NASCAR’s earliest heroes endures.

15. Benny Parsons

Benny Parsons brought a unique mix of grit and grace to NASCAR. He won the 1973 Cup Series championship and claimed victory in the 1975 Daytona 500, but it was his reputation as one of the sport's most gentlemanly drivers that set him apart.

After retiring with 21 career wins, Parsons found a second career in the broadcast booth, where his insightful commentary and warm personality made him a fan favorite all over again. Parsons was one of NASCAR's true ambassadors, on and off the track.

16. Dale Jarrett

Dale Jarrett carved his own path to greatness, emerging from his famous racing family to become a three-time Daytona 500 winner and the 1999 Cup Series champion. With 32 career victories, Jarrett’s calm, steady demeanor behind the wheel made him a model of consistency in the 1990s.

His biggest triumph came with his long partnership with team owner Robert Yates, which produced some of NASCAR's most dominant performances. After retiring, Jarrett joined the broadcast team, continuing his influence on the sport.

17. Fred Lorenzen

Fred Lorenzen, known as "The Golden Boy," was one of the sport's most celebrated drivers in the 1960s, despite never running a full season. With 26 career victories, including two Coca-Cola 600 wins, Lorenzen’s aggressive yet precise driving style made him a fan favorite.

He was the first driver to win $100,000 in a single season, and his success helped solidify NASCAR’s place in American sports culture. Lorenzen’s impact was brief but significant, and he remains one of the most revered figures from NASCAR’s early era.

18. Rusty Wallace

Rusty Wallace was known for his fiery competitive spirit and aggressive driving, which led to 55 career victories and the 1989 Cup Series championship.

Wallace was a master on short tracks, where his talent for navigating tight corners and heavy traffic made him a dominant force. His rivalry with Dale Earnhardt in the 1990s was one of the fiercest in the sport, and his influence extended beyond his driving career, as he became a successful team owner and broadcaster.

19. Curtis Turner

Curtis Turner was NASCAR's original wild man, both on and off the track. Known as one of the best drivers of his era, Turner claimed 17 career victories and was a master on dirt tracks. His fearless driving style earned him the nickname “Pops” and helped build NASCAR’s early popularity.

Off the track, Turner was just as colorful, with a hard-partying lifestyle that became legendary. Though his career was sometimes marred by controversy, Turner's larger-than-life personality and raw talent made him a NASCAR legend.

20. Joe Weatherly

Joe Weatherly, known as the "Clown Prince of Racing" for his playful antics, was anything but a joke on the track. He won back-to-back Cup Series championships in 1962 and 1963, amassing 25 career victories.

Weatherly was known for his versatility, excelling on both short tracks and road courses. His easy-going personality made him popular with fans and fellow drivers alike, but his life was tragically cut short in a crash in 1964.

21. Terry Labonte

Terry Labonte's nickname, "The Iceman," says it all: He was cool under pressure and known for his calm, methodical driving style. A two-time Cup Series champion (1984 and 1996), Labonte amassed 22 career victories in a career that spanned over three decades.

Labonte wasn't always flashy, but he was a model of consistency and professionalism. His longevity in the sport and ability to adapt to different eras made him one of NASCAR’s most respected competitors.

22. Mark Martin

Mark Martin may be known as the greatest driver to never win a Cup Series championship, but his 40 career victories and five runner-up finishes in the standings speak volumes about his talent and consistency.

Martin was a master of fitness and preparation, helping to set a new standard for drivers in terms of endurance and mental toughness. Known for his sportsmanship, Martin was respected by his peers and loved by fans for his never-quit attitude, proving that you don’t need a title to be a champion.

23. Jeff Gordon

The "Rainbow Warrior" joined NASCAR in the 1990s, and in 1995, Jeff Gordon became the youngest driver in the modern era to win a Cup Series title when he was just 24 years old. He went on to win three more Cup Series championships (1997, 1998, 2001) and three Daytona 500 cups. He also was inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2019.

In his 23 years of full-time Cup Series competition, Gordon won 93 races, which puts him at No. 3 on the all-time wins list behind only NASCAR Hall of Fame drivers Richard Petty (200) and David Pearson (105) in all-time victories.

24. Wendell Scott

Wendell Scott made history as the first Black driver to win a NASCAR Cup Series race. His lone victory in 1963 at Jacksonville came in the face of immense adversity, as Scott battled not only his competitors but also the racial prejudices of the time.

Despite lacking the resources of bigger teams, Scott's talent and determination earned him respect in the racing world. His story remains one of perseverance and triumph, and his legacy continues to inspire future generations of drivers.

25. Buddy Baker

Known for his towering height and bold driving style, Buddy Baker was one of NASCAR's top superspeedway racers. He became the first driver to break the 200-mph barrier on a closed course and claimed 19 career victories, including the 1980 Daytona 500.

Baker’s nickname, "Gentle Giant," reflected his off-track demeanor, but on the track, he was all business. After retiring, Baker became a beloved broadcaster, sharing his wealth of racing knowledge and Southern charm with fans across the country.

26. Cotton Owens

Cotton Owens was a master both behind the wheel and under the hood. He won nine races as a driver, but his greatest success came as a car owner and mechanic, helping David Pearson win the 1966 Cup Series championship.

Owens' technical expertise and eye for talent made him one of the most respected figures in the sport. His contributions to NASCAR's growth during its early years, especially in the Southeast, helped shape the sport into what it is today.

27. Bobby Isaac

Bobby Isaac's driving career was defined by speed. He claimed 37 career victories and won the 1970 Cup Series championship, but it was his record-breaking run at Bonneville Salt Flats, where he set a land-speed record in a NASCAR stock car, that cemented his legacy.

Known for his quiet, intense focus, Isaac was one of the toughest competitors of his era. His ability to push both himself and his car to the limit made him a standout in NASCAR history.

1. Mario Andretti

Mario Andretti is an Italian American race car legend who transcended motorsport. A household name all over the world, Andretti is one of only two drivers to win races in Formula One, Indy Car, World Sportscar Championship and NASCAR. He also won races in midget cars and sprint cars.

During his illustrious career, Andretti won the 1978 Formula One World Championship and four Indy Car titles. To date, he remains the only driver ever to win the Indianapolis 500, the Daytona 500 and the Formula One World Championship, and the only driver to have won a race in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, Formula One and an Indianapolis 500.

Andretti remains the last American to have won a Formula One race victory — back in 1978 at the Dutch Grand Prix. He also is one of only three drivers to win races on road courses, paved ovals and dirt tracks in one season, a feat that he accomplished four different times.

2. A.J. Foyt

Known as "Super Tex" to friends and foes, A.J. Foyt is one of the best American race car drivers of all time — distinguished by the fact that he raced in several different genres of motorsport, including Automobile Club Champ cars and midget cars.

Foyt also raced stock cars in NASCAR, and holds the United States Auto Club (USAC) career wins record with 159 victories, and the American championship racing career wins record with 67 first place trophies.

Foyt also is the only driver to win the Indianapolis 500 (which he won four times), the Daytona 500, the 24 Hours of Daytona and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Foyt also won the International Race of Champions all-star racing series in 1976 and 1977.

This incredible run was despite Foyt having had three serious crashes during his career that left him with lifelong injuries.

3. Rick Mears

Rick Mears was the master of the Indianapolis 500, winning the race four times, a feat only a select few have achieved.

Known for his smooth, calculated driving style, Mears was a true tactician on ovals, especially at the Brickyard. He also claimed three IndyCar championships, solidifying his status as one of the sport’s all-time greats.

Mears was never flashy, but his precision and patience paid off in the form of consistent victories and a lasting legacy. He remains a symbol of calm excellence in the high-pressure world of IndyCar racing.

4. Al Unser Sr.

Al Unser Sr. was as cool as they come, with four Indy 500 victories and three IndyCar championships under his belt. Known for his ability to stay calm under pressure, Unser was a master of endurance, able to make his car last the distance in grueling races.

His 1987 Indy 500 win, at the age of 47, made him the oldest winner in the race's history, further cementing his status as one of the sport’s legends. Unser’s smooth, efficient style made him one of the most consistent drivers to ever compete in IndyCar.

5. Scott Dixon

Scott Dixon has been the face of modern IndyCar dominance. With six championships to his name, Dixon’s ability to win across multiple generations of the sport has made him a force to be reckoned with.

Known for his adaptability, Dixon excels on both road courses and ovals, making him one of the most versatile drivers in IndyCar history.

His calm demeanor and relentless pursuit of excellence have helped him remain competitive for over two decades, and his 2008 Indy 500 win solidified his place among the all-time greats.

6. Dario Franchitti

Dario Franchitti's career was marked by brilliance, with four IndyCar championships and three Indy 500 victories. Known for his tactical racecraft, Franchitti had the ability to read a race like no other, often making the right moves at the right times.

His smooth, precise driving style made him a favorite on road courses, while his mental toughness saw him thrive in the high-stakes world of the Indy 500. Franchitti’s combination of intelligence and speed earned him a permanent place in IndyCar's elite.

7. Al Unser Jr.

"Little Al" Unser Jr. had big shoes to fill, and he did so with style, winning the Indy 500 twice and capturing two CART championships. Known for his clean, consistent driving and his ability to thrive under pressure, Unser Jr. was a fan favorite throughout the 1990s.

His memorable duels, including his razor-thin victory in the 1992 Indy 500, made him a key figure in one of IndyCar’s most competitive eras. Unser Jr. carried the family name with pride, cementing his legacy as one of the sport’s greats.

8. Bobby Unser

Bobby Unser was one of the most aggressive and exciting drivers in IndyCar history, with three Indy 500 victories and two USAC/IndyCar championships to his name. Known for his fierce competitiveness and daring overtakes, Bobby could push his car to the absolute limit.

His rivalry with other top drivers in the 1970s, including his brother Al, only added to the excitement of the era. Bobby Unser's ability to perform under pressure and his relentless pursuit of victory made him one of the sport's most colorful characters.

9. Emerson Fittipaldi

Emerson Fittipaldi brought his Formula One world champion pedigree to IndyCar and quickly made a name for himself, winning two Indy 500s and the 1989 CART championship.

Known for his cool, calculated approach to racing, Fittipaldi's ability to transition from Formula One to the rough-and-tumble world of IndyCar was nothing short of remarkable. His fierce determination and adaptability made him a dominant figure in the series, and his influence helped bridge the gap between international and American open-wheel racing.

10. Helio Castroneves

Few drivers can electrify a crowd like Helio Castroneves. Known for his charismatic personality and famous fence-climbing celebrations, Castroneves is a four-time Indy 500 winner — one of only a handful of drivers to reach that milestone.

His natural talent on ovals, combined with his cheerful demeanor, made him a fan favorite throughout his career. Castroneves' consistency, particularly at Indianapolis, earned him a place among IndyCar's elite, and his energy both on and off the track helped shape the modern era of the sport.

11. Tony Kanaan

Tony Kanaan's relentless determination and underdog spirit made him one of the most beloved figures in IndyCar history. With an Indy 500 victory in 2013 and a championship in 2004, Kanaan's career was built on grit and resilience.

His consistency over nearly two decades, paired with his never-quit attitude, earned him the admiration of fans and competitors alike. Known for his close-quarters racing and fearless overtakes, Kanaan's story is one of perseverance and heart, making him a true fan favorite.

12. Will Power

Will Power is one of the best when it comes to road and street courses, and his technical expertise and qualifying prowess have helped him secure two IndyCar championships and the 2018 Indy 500.

Power's intensity on the track, coupled with his precise driving style, has made him a dominant force in the modern IndyCar era. Whether it's a pole position or a race win, Power's ability to extract maximum performance from his car is second to none, earning him a spot among the series' all-time greats.

13. Johnny Rutherford

Johnny Rutherford, aka "Lonestar JR," was a master of the Indy 500, winning the race three times during his illustrious career. Rutherford’s smooth, steady driving style allowed him to excel on ovals, and his calm demeanor under pressure made him a favorite in the high-stakes environment of the Brickyard.

With two USAC championships to his name as well, Rutherford was a consistent front-runner throughout the 1970s and 1980s, solidifying his status as one of IndyCar’s true legends.

14. Danica Patrick

Danica Patrick broke barriers in motorsport, becoming one of the most recognized figures in both IndyCar and NASCAR. In 2008, she made history as the first woman to win an IndyCar race with her victory at the Japan 300, showcasing her skill and determination in a male-dominated sport.

Known for her fierce competitiveness and marketability, Patrick didn't just compete; she brought new fans to racing and inspired countless women to pursue their passions. Though she never claimed an IndyCar championship, her impact on motorsport culture and her role as a trailblazer will be remembered for years to come.

1. Michael Schumacher

German driver Michael Schumacher was a seven-time Formula One World Champion. He's considered one of the best Formula One drivers in history, and the most successful of the modern era. He was named Laureus World Sportsman of the Year twice, and holds many Formula One records, including most championships, race victories, fastest laps, pole positions and most races won in a single season.

In 2002, Schumacher became the only driver in Formula One history to finish in the top three in every race of a season, and he broke the record for most consecutive podium finishes.

In December 2013, Schumacher had a serious head injury while skiing, despite wearing a helmet. The family has been very private about the accident, which left him with severe brain injuries, though it's clear it ended his driving career for good.

2. Lewis Hamilton

Few drivers have had as profound an impact on Formula One as Lewis Hamilton. Tying Michael Schumacher with seven world championships, Hamilton became the face of modern Formula One with his record-breaking performances.

Known for his remarkable consistency, Hamilton's ability to find extra speed when it mattered most helped him rack up 100+ pole positions and 100+ race wins.

Off the track, he’s a trailblazer for diversity and social change, using his platform to promote inclusion. With an unmatched mix of talent, determination and influence, Hamilton's legacy is still growing.

3. Ayrton Senna

Brazilian race car legend Ayrton Senna da Silva won three Formula One world championships before he died on the track while leading the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix. During his career, Senna was one of the most dominant and successful Formula One drivers of the modern era.

Senna made his Formula One debut in 1984, and won six Grand Prix races in his first three seasons as a driver. In 1988, he won all but one of the 16 Grand Prix and accomplished his first World Championship. He won his second and third championships in 1990 and 1991.

His rivalry with Alain Prost during the period dominated global motorsports. From 1989 until 2006, Senna held the record for most pole positions.

4. Nigel Mansell

A legend in his home country England, Nigel Mansell won both the Formula One World Championship in 1992 and the CART Indy Car World Series in 1993. He was the reigning Formula One champion when he moved to CART, becoming the first person to win the CART title in his debut season, and making him the only person to hold both titles simultaneously.

Mansell's career in Formula One racing lasted 15 seasons, with his final two full seasons spent in the CART series. Mansell is seventh overall on the Formula One race winners list and, until 2011, held the record for the most number of poles set in a single season.

In 2005, Mansell came out of retirement to race in the Grand Prix Masters series, and he won the championship. He was inducted to the International Motorsport Hall of Fame later that year.

5. Alain Prost

Alain Prost is the most famous French race car driver of all time and a four-time Formula One Champion. And between 1987 and 2001, he held the record for most Grand Prix victories in history, 51.

Prost also enjoyed several classic rivalries with other drivers during the 1980s and 1990s, notably with Ayrton Senna and Nigel Mansell. In 1986, during the last race of the season, Prost beat Mansell for the Formula One championship.

An instinctive driver, Prost was known for his smooth, relaxed style behind the wheel. Nicknamed "The Professor" for his intellectual approach to racing, in 1999 Prost received the World Sports Awards of the Century in the motorsport category.

6. Juan Manuel Fangio

Juan Manuel Fangio was Formula One's original superstar. With five world championships in the 1950s — a record that stood for nearly 50 years — Fangio was a master of finesse and race strategy. He didn’t just win; he dominated, securing titles with four different teams, a feat still unmatched.

Fangio's smooth driving style and ability to coax maximum performance out of early, unreliable machines made him untouchable in his era. His win percentage is still the highest in Formula One history, cementing his status as one of the all-time greats.

7. Niki Lauda

Niki Lauda's career was one of triumph over adversity. A three-time world champion, Lauda was known for his technical knowledge and precise driving style.

But it was his miraculous comeback after a horrific crash at the Nürburgring in 1976, where he suffered severe burns, that defined his legacy. Just six weeks later, he was back in the cockpit, competing for the title.

His rivalry with James Hunt, dramatized in the film "Rush," was legendary. Lauda's cool, calculated approach made him one of the most respected drivers in the sport's history.

8. Sebastian Vettel

Sebastian Vettel burst onto the scene with his four consecutive world championships from 2010 to 2013, leading Red Bull Racing to dominance. Known for his relentless pursuit of perfection and an uncanny ability to put together flawless race weekends, Vettel’s methodical approach paid off in spades.

His mastery of qualifying and race strategy made him a formidable opponent, and while his later years with Ferrari didn't yield more titles, his legacy as one of Formula One's brightest stars is secure.

9. Jackie Stewart

Jackie Stewart wasn't just a three-time world champion. He was a pioneer for driver safety.

Known for his smooth and consistent driving style, Stewart dominated in the late '60s and early '70s, but he was also a relentless advocate for improving the dangerous conditions of the sport. Stewart’s campaigns for better safety standards saved countless lives and fundamentally changed Formula One.

On the track, he was a master of wet-weather driving and had an ability to read races like no other, making him a true legend both as a driver and a reformer.

10. Fernando Alonso

Fernando Alonso is one of the most complete drivers in Formula One history. A two-time world champion, Alonso's aggressive driving style, unmatched racecraft, and ability to outperform his car have earned him a reputation as a relentless competitor.

Whether battling for championships or scrapping for points in a less competitive car, Alonso's never-say-die attitude has made him a fan favorite. His ability to adapt to different eras of Formula One, along with his longevity, has kept him in the conversation as one of the sport's true greats.

11. Jim Clark

Jim Clark was one of the most naturally gifted drivers to ever grace Formula One. With two world championships, Clark dominated in the 1960s with an unmatched blend of speed and precision.

Known for his smooth driving style, Clark could win in any car and under any conditions. His versatility extended beyond Formula One, as he won in everything from IndyCars to touring cars.

Tragically, Clark’s life was cut short in a crash in 1968, but his incredible talent and quiet demeanor continue to make him a revered figure in motorsport.

12. Stirling Moss

Often hailed as the greatest driver never to win a world championship, Stirling Moss was a racing icon in the 1950s. With 16 Grand Prix victories and an incredible versatility across all forms of motorsport, Moss set the standard for what it meant to be a professional driver.

His sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct on and off the track earned him widespread respect. Even without a title to his name, Moss’s impact on Formula One and motorsport as a whole is undeniable.

13. Max Verstappen

Max Verstappen may still be in the early stages of his career, but he's already carved out a place among the greats. With back-to-back championships in 2021 and 2022, Verstappen's aggressive, no-holds-barred driving style has electrified fans. His ability to pull off daring overtakes and perform under pressure has made him a standout in the modern era of Formula One.

At just 25, Verstappen’s future looks incredibly bright, and he's already established himself as one of the most exciting drivers on the grid.

14. Kimi Räikkönen

Known as "The Iceman" for his cool, calm demeanor, Kimi Räikkönen’s 2007 world championship capped a career filled with highs and lows. A fan favorite for his no-nonsense attitude and blistering speed, Räikkönen’s longevity in the sport is remarkable.

With 21 wins, including iconic victories at Spa and Monaco, Räikkönen was a constant threat on any given day. His dry sense of humor and refusal to play the media game only endeared him more to fans around the world.

15. Mika Häkkinen

Mika Häkkinen’s rivalry with Michael Schumacher in the late 1990s defined an era of Formula One. With two world championships in 1998 and 1999, Häkkinen was known for his lightning-fast reflexes and fearless overtaking. His calm and composed driving style under pressure made him one of the toughest competitors of his generation.

Häkkinen’s skill, combined with his quiet confidence, earned him widespread respect from his peers, and his battles with Schumacher are still talked about today.

16. Nelson Piquet

Nelson Piquet was one of the most calculating and technically proficient drivers in Formula One history. With three world championships in the 1980s, Piquet mastered the art of getting the most out of his machinery.

Known for his technical feedback and ability to work closely with engineers, Piquet's attention to detail set him apart. While his brash personality sometimes caused controversy, his results on the track were undeniable, and his contributions to the development of modern Formula One cars were significant.

17. Alberto Ascari

Alberto Ascari dominated Formula One in the early 1950s, winning back-to-back world championships in 1952 and 1953. Known for his smooth driving style and incredible consistency, Ascari was virtually unbeatable at his peak, racking up race wins at a staggering rate. He was Italy's first Formula One world champion and remains one of the most successful Italian drivers of all time.

Ascari's untimely death in 1955 cut short what could have been an even greater career, but his place among Formula One's legends is firmly secured.

1. Sébastien Loeb

Sébastien Loeb is the undisputed king of rally racing. With nine consecutive World Rally Championship titles from 2004 to 2012, his dominance in the sport is unmatched.

Loeb’s smooth, calculated driving style made him virtually unbeatable, whether on gravel, tarmac, snow or dirt. His ability to adapt to different terrains, combined with razor-sharp focus and consistency, set him apart from his peers.

Even beyond his WRC career, Loeb has proven his versatility in everything from rallycross to circuit racing. Quite simply, Loeb didn't just compete in rallying; he redefined what it means to be the best.

2. Ken Block

If you only follow NASCAR or Formula One, this name might not be familiar, but Ken Block's driving skills are legendary.

Block was the first American to drive in the FIA World Rally Championship, founded both DC Shoes and Hoonigan lifestyle brands, and starred in numerous viral YouTube stunt driving videos, known as Ken Block's Gymkhana. In other words, Block's talents took him on a different route than the rest of the drivers you'll see on this list.

But his ability to control a car at its limits won him fans and accolades around the world. Block died in January 2023 at age 55 in a snowmobile accident, but his contributions to the motor sports community will never be forgotten.

3. Sébastien Ogier

Sébastien Ogier carved his name into rallying history with eight World Rally Championship titles, making him one of the greatest to ever take the wheel. Known for his relentless consistency, Ogier's ability to balance aggression with precision allowed him to thrive in the most challenging conditions.

Whether he was chasing down rivals or protecting a lead, Ogier had an uncanny knack for controlling races. His intense focus and adaptability on all surfaces made him a complete driver, and his success across different teams and eras only cements his legendary status.

4. Juha Kankkunen

A four-time World Rally Champion, Juha Kankkunen's calm under pressure and ability to succeed across multiple manufacturers make him a rally icon. Winning titles with Peugeot, Lancia and Toyota, Kankkunen's adaptability was one of his greatest strengths.

Whether on the icy roads of Sweden or the dusty trails of Africa, Kankkunen always knew how to find the right balance between speed and control. His smooth, efficient driving style and technical understanding of rally cars helped him stay competitive for more than a decade, earning him a well-deserved place among the sport's all-time greats.

5. Tommi Mäkinen

Tommi Mäkinen’s aggressive, flat-out driving style helped him claim four consecutive World Rally Championship titles from 1996 to 1999, making him one of the most dominant drivers of his era. Mäkinen was a master on gravel, particularly with Mitsubishi, where he built his legacy as one of the toughest competitors in the sport.

His relentless speed and fearless approach made him a crowd favorite, and his ability to push cars to their limits often led to thrilling and dramatic finishes. Mäkinen didn’t just win; he did it in a way that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

6. Colin McRae

Few drivers captured the imagination of rally fans quite like Colin McRae. The 1995 World Rally Champion was known for his fearless, all-or-nothing driving style that often produced spectacular results — or equally spectacular crashes.

McRae’s motto of "If in doubt, flat out" summed up his approach perfectly. While he only secured one championship, his aggressive, high-risk, high-reward tactics made him one of the most beloved figures in the sport.

Whether winning or crashing out in dramatic fashion, McRae always delivered excitement, earning him a lasting legacy in rally history.

7. Carlos Sainz Sr.

Known as "El Matador," Carlos Sainz Sr. was a two-time World Rally Champion and one of the most consistent performers in the sport’s history. With 26 WRC victories and a career that spanned over two decades, Sainz's technical brilliance and methodical approach made him a constant threat on any surface.

His attention to detail and ability to develop cars alongside engineers set him apart from many of his peers. Sainz's resilience and dedication helped him remain competitive well into his 40s, earning him widespread respect as one of the all-time greats in rallying.

8. Walter Röhrl

Walter Röhrl was a two-time World Rally Champion, but his influence on the sport extends far beyond his titles.

Known for his incredible precision and ability to master a variety of surfaces, Röhrl’s success with both rear-wheel and four-wheel drive cars made him one of the most versatile drivers in rally history. His wins at the Monte Carlo Rally, particularly his mastery of tarmac, are legendary.

Röhrl wasn’t just a fast driver. He was a thinking driver who could outsmart his competition with a deep understanding of racecraft and car dynamics.

9. Marcus Grönholm

Marcus Grönholm brought raw speed and aggression to the WRC, winning two world championships in 2000 and 2002. Grönholm’s fearless driving style, especially on gravel, made him one of the most exciting drivers to watch.

With 30 WRC victories, Grönholm’s ability to push the limits often led to dominant performances, but he was also known for his charismatic personality and down-to-earth approach.

Grönholm's success with Peugeot solidified his place among rallying's elite, and his thrilling duels with drivers like Sébastien Loeb are still remembered as some of the sport's most intense battles.

10. Hannu Mikkola

The 1983 World Rally Champion, Hannu Mikkola was a pioneering figure in rallying, especially during the early years of Audi's iconic Quattro. Mikkola’s mastery of the revolutionary four-wheel drive system helped him win rallies across the globe, from snowy Scandinavian stages to grueling African desert routes.

With a career spanning three decades, Mikkola's experience and adaptability made him one of the most respected drivers in the sport. His contributions to the development of rallying technology and his impressive longevity ensured his place as a rally legend.

11. Ari Vatanen

Ari Vatanen's 1981 World Rally Championship title and his fearless approach to driving made him one of the most beloved figures in rallying. Vatanen's sheer bravery and ability to take on even the most challenging stages with confidence earned him a reputation as one of the sport’s great risk-takers.

After surviving a near-fatal crash in 1985, Vatanen's remarkable comeback solidified his place in rallying folklore. His victories, including multiple triumphs in the grueling Dakar Rally, showcased his endurance and resilience, making Vatanen a true rally hero.

We updated this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.