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Top 5 Formula One Rookies of All Time

  • Lewis Hamilton
  • Michael Schumacher
  • Jacques Villeneuve
  • Clay Regazzoni

There are different ways of achieving success in Formula One. Some drivers start out quiet, gradually climbing the ladder and after the few seasons, start winning the races. Others, come in Formula One as stars, with media attention and big expectations. Sometimes, those expectations proved to be wrong, but, sometimes the new star is born. We have compiled a Top 5 list of best Formula One rookies, drivers who achieved notable success in their first race or the first season and drivers who become household Formula One names in later career.

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5. Jean Alesi

His experience with single seatter race cars was very limited when he came in Formula One, in 1989. However, during his first season Alesi proved to be very good, even in underpowered car. He led the race 25 laps in front of Ayrton Senna and by the end of the season, three top teams of the championship were fighting for his contract. He signed with the Ferrari and continued his career in Italian team.

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Jean Alesi

Jean Alesi

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4. Clay Regazzoni

The famous Swiss driver started in 1970, racing for Ferrari team and winning one race and three podium finishes which was fascinating for unknown driver. Not only that, but he also won his first F1 race in his debut season, at Ferrari’s home race at Monza,which secures his place in history of the Ferrari.

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Clay Regazzoni

Clay Regazzoni

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3. Michael Schumacher

In his first race outing, in 1991 at Spa, Schumacher qualified 7th on the grid but did not finish the race due to a clutch problem. However, that was enough to get place in Beneton team for the next 5 races. He scored three points that season and was involved in major accident. Next year, he finished third in the championship and the rest is history…

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Michael Schumacher

Michael Schumacher

2. Jacques Villeneuve

Villeneuve came in Formula One as NART champion and very experienced driver. Expectations were high and on his first race he held the pole position. He could have won but oil leak placed him on second place which was impressive. In a few months time, Villeneuve won his first Grand Prix win and a year after he was a Formula One champion.

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Jacques Villeneuve

Jacques Villeneuve

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1. Lewis Hamilton

As a first black driver in Formula One and young star, Hamilton was under enormous media pressure. However, on his first race he claimed a podium finish and won his first race in a few months time. The rest is history since Hamilton soon become the first black and youngest Formula One champion.

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Lewis Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton

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Photos:www.gettyimages.com,wwwf1.com,

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