15 Legendary F1 Drivers Who Made McLaren Iconic

Throughout the history of Formula One, McLaren has been home to some of the most iconic and talented drivers in the sport.

From legendary champions to promising newcomers, these drivers have shaped the legacy of McLaren, each bringing their unique style, skill, and charisma to the team. In this article, we rank the top McLaren F1 drivers who have left an indelible mark on the sport and contributed to the team’s success over the decades.

15. Gerhard Berger

Gerhard Berger spent three memorable seasons as Ayrton Senna’s teammate at McLaren from 1990-1992. The Austrian driver secured four pole positions and three Grand Prix wins during his tenure, contributing to McLaren’s constructors’ titles in 1990 and 1991. Berger’s quick wit and practical jokes made him a fan favorite, balancing Senna’s intense focus.

14. Nigel Mansell

Nigel Mansell’s brief stint with McLaren in 1995 was marred by difficulties. The 1992 World Champion struggled to fit in the car, missing the first two races. After returning for two disappointing outings, Mansell and McLaren parted ways, ending his illustrious F1 career on a sour note.

13. Lando Norris

Lando Norris has become a fan favorite since joining McLaren in 2019. In 2024, he secured four Grand Prix victories and finished as runner-up in the World Drivers’ Championship, helping McLaren clinch their first Constructors’ title since 1998. Norris’s charismatic personality and impressive performances have solidified his status as a rising star in Formula One.

12. Bruce McLaren

Bruce McLaren, the team’s founder, was a pioneering driver and engineer. He won four Grand Prix races, including McLaren’s first victory at the 1968 Belgian Grand Prix. McLaren’s innovative spirit and leadership laid the foundation for the team’s future success, establishing a legacy that continues to inspire in Formula 1 today.

11. David Coulthard

David Coulthard raced for McLaren from 1996 to 2004, securing 12 of his 13 career wins with the team. He finished as runner-up in the 2001 World Championship and helped McLaren clinch the Constructors’ title in 1998. Coulthard’s consistency and leadership made him a fan favorite during McLaren’s competitive era.

10. Emerson Fittipaldi

Emerson Fittipaldi joined McLaren in 1974 and immediately made his mark, winning the World Drivers’ Championship in his debut season with the team. The Brazilian’s smooth driving style and adaptability helped secure McLaren’s first Constructors’ Championship. Fittipaldi’s success paved the way for future Brazilian stars in Formula 1.

9. Jenson Button

Jenson Button joined McLaren in 2010, partnering Lewis Hamilton. He secured 8 of his 15 career wins with the team, including a memorable victory in Canada 2011. Button’s smooth driving style and tire management skills made him a fan favorite during his 7-year stint at McLaren, which ended in 2016.

8. Fernando Alonso

Fernando Alonso’s McLaren stints were marked by highs and lows. His 2007 season saw intense rivalry with Lewis Hamilton, while 2015-2018 was plagued by unreliable Honda engines. Despite challenges, Alonso’s skill shone through, with his 2018 performance praised for extracting maximum potential from an uncompetitive car.

7. Kimi Räikkönen

Known as “The Iceman,” Kimi Räikkönen raced for McLaren from 2002 to 2006. He secured nine wins, 36 podiums, and finished runner-up in the championship twice during his tenure. Räikkönen’s cool demeanor and exceptional speed made him a fan favorite, cementing his status as one of McLaren’s most popular drivers.

6. Niki Lauda

Niki Lauda joined McLaren in 1982 for a record-breaking $5 million contract. The Austrian legend clinched his third World Championship with the team in 1984, narrowly beating teammate Alain Prost. Lauda’s comeback from a near-fatal crash and his final victory in 1985 cemented his status as a McLaren icon.

5. James Hunt

James Hunt, the charismatic 1976 World Champion, raced for McLaren from 1976 to 1978. Known for his playboy lifestyle and fierce rivalry with Niki Lauda, Hunt secured 9 of his 10 career wins with McLaren. His daring driving style and flamboyant personality made him a fan favorite and cemented his place in F1 history.

4. Alain Prost

Nicknamed “The Professor,” Alain Prost won three of his four World Championships with McLaren. He secured 30 victories during his six seasons with the team, becoming the first French World Champion in 1985. Prost’s rivalry with teammate Ayrton Senna pushed both drivers to unprecedented heights of success and controversy.

3. Mika Häkkinen

The “Flying Finn” won back-to-back World Championships with McLaren in 1998 and 1999. Known for his blistering speed and cool demeanor, Häkkinen scored 20 Grand Prix victories and 51 podiums during his tenure. His legendary battles with Michael Schumacher, particularly at Spa in 2000, cemented his status as a McLaren icon.

2. Lewis Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton’s McLaren career from 2007-2012 was stellar, with 21 wins and his first world championship in 2008. He set records as a rookie and became the then-youngest champion. Hamilton’s partnership with McLaren ended after 2012, but his impact on the team’s legacy remains significant.

1. Ayrton Senna

Ayrton Senna, widely regarded as one of the greatest F1 drivers ever, dominated for McLaren from 1988 to 1993. He secured three World Championships (1988, 1990, 1991) and 35 race victories with the team. Senna’s legendary status was cemented by his unparalleled qualifying skills and wet-weather mastery.

Watch Now: Big plays. Fast takes. Check out TQR Shorts for the latest sports news with Zoe!