Best driver – Max Verstappen
It’s difficult to think of superlatives that have not been used in the same sentence as Max Verstappen. His driving performance in 2022 was simply astounding and awe-inspiring. The utter domination came, seemingly, with the greatest of ease. And while this may be how it looks from to those of us who observe from the outside, there is undoubtedly an enormous amount of work that goes into ensuring that Verstappen is able to deliver at this level. But that is one of the things that great champions have always been able to do – make it look easy.
It has taken him a few seasons to get to the top of his game and the sport, but now that he is there and permitting that he has the car to do so, it’s difficult to see who will be able to topple the prolific Dutchman from his throne, at least for a few more years.
Best team – Red Bull Racing
If you only looked at 2022, you’d never be able to say that Red Bull hadn’t won a constructor’s title since 2013. Such was the clinical nature of their approach this season that there was never an inkling of doubt that they’d drop the ball.
From pitstops to strategy calls to tyre strategy, Red Bull was on top of every possible aspect that contributed to their title successes this season. Heck, they even ensured that they didn’t skimp on catering!
Worst race – Monaco GP
It should be noted that winning on the streets of Monaco was a wonderful, and a fully deserved, moment of glory for the well-liked Checo Perez. But the utter monotony that is the Monaco Grand Prix is surely beginning to test even the most ardent F1 fan’s endurance.
Besides the history of the Grand Prix, which is unquestionably filled with marvellous memories, there simply isn’t anything about Monaco in the modern era that excites any spectator.
The drivers may, and should, feel a significant sense of achievement for winning in these parts.
After all, it is an immense mental challenge to thread a Formula 1 machine through the tiny barrier-lined streets for 71 laps without making a mistake. But there is an important part of the F1 equation that simply no longer sees/feels the appeal of Monaco: the fans.
