After a dominant performance in Japan, Max Verstappen was rewarded with a high score in the Power Rankings, but that is not enough for the Limburger to take back the lead from Carlos Sainz. The Spaniard himself also received good appreciation for his performance on the winding Suzuka.
In the Power Rankings, five analysts from Formula1.com give grades to the drivers for their weekend performance. Verstappen only scored lower than a 9.0 three times in the past twelve months: in Las Vegas (2023) he received an 8.6; in Singapore he did not make the top ten; and in Australia he only received a 7.2 after an early retirement. The Dutchman saw his average plummet as a result, as he received a 9.6 twice more in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. Sainz took over the lead position.
Verstappen best boy in class
The 26-year-old Limburger received a 9.6 in Japan for the third time this season, and achieved the highest score of all drivers. ‘After his right rear brake failed him in Australia, Verstappen continued where he left off, taking pole position and another win. His success in Japan marked the thirtieth time he has won from pole position, and the third win in a row at Suzuka – something that only Michael Schumacher had previously achieved. Our judges were once again impressed by the reigning world champion.’
Sainz held on in the general classification thanks to a second place in the Power Rankings. The Ferrari driver received an 8.8. ‘As Sainz looks for a seat for 2025, his form speaks volumes. His third-place finish in Japan sees him maintain his perfect score with three podiums in three starts. That’s why he gets a high score.’
Behind the former teammates, Sergio Pérez, Fernando Alonso, and Yuki Tsunoda shared third place, with an 8.4. Charles Leclerc (8.0), Lando Norris (7.6), George Russell (6.8), and Nico Hülkenberg (6.6) were in the top nine, while Oscar Piastri, Valtteri Bottas, and Esteban Ocon with a 6.2 had to share tenth place. Alexander Albon and Lance Stroll were close behind, meaning Lewis Hamilton must have been one of the weakest five drivers.
Sainz and Verstappen with a big lead
Sainz still leads the general classification with an average of 9.1. This puts him one tenth ahead of Verstappen. Behind the Dutchman there is a large gap to number three Charles Leclerc, who scored an average of 7.9. Norris, Pérez, Piastri, Alonso, Tsunoda, Russell, and Hülkenberg complete the top ten. The most conspicuous absentee here is also Hamilton.
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