Formula 1 is recognized for its blend of speed, technique, and knowledge. However, some drivers have made history by starting their F1 careers at a very young age. These young talents showed that even teenagers can compete at the highest level. Their early starts made them famous and inspired many young fans around the world. Here are the top five youngest drivers to ever race in Formula 1.
5. Lando Norris – 19 years, 124 days
Lando Norris debuted at the 2019 Australian Grand Prix with McLaren at 19 years old. He quickly became known for his speed, consistency, and racecraft. Norris is now a key driver for McLaren. In 2025, Norris has been performing strongly, winning five races and earning 13 podiums, making him second in the drivers’ standings behind teammate Oscar Piastri.
4. Oliver Bearman – 18 years, 305 days
Oliver Bearman made his first F1 appearance at the 2024 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. As a Ferrari junior, he impressed by qualifying strongly and finishing in the points. Bearman is viewed as one of the promising young talents in Formula 1. Many fans see him as a future race winner. He continues to gain experience and improve with each race.
3. Kimi Antonelli – 18 years, 202 days
Andrea “Kimi” Antonelli debuted in the 2025 Australian Grand Prix, becoming the third youngest driver in F1 history. He is a rising talent in Formula 1 and is considered a part of the new generation of drivers who could make a mark in the sport. Fans are excited to see his progress in future races. He has shown strong speed and skill even in his first season.
2. Lance Stroll – 18 years, 148 days
Lance Stroll made his debut in 2017 with Williams at just 18 years old. Despite his young age, he scored points early in his career and even achieved a podium finish in 2017. Today, he races for Aston Martin and continues to be one of the youngest drivers to have made an impact in F1.
1. Max Verstappen – 17 years, 166 days
Max Verstappen made history as the youngest F1 driver ever when he debuted at the 2015 Australian Grand Prix for Toro Rosso. His record-breaking debut led to changes in F1 rules about the minimum age and experience needed to get a super licence. Max quickly rose to prominence and later became a multiple F1 World Champion with Red Bull Racing.
Conclusion
These drivers show that age is just a number when it comes to talent in Formula 1. Each of them made history by stepping into F1 at an incredibly young age, proving that skill, dedication, and determination can open doors to the highest level of motorsport.
Written by Kinjal Walantra
