As Lewis Hamilton enters the last months of his storied career with Mercedes, the question on everyone’s mind is: can he secure one more World Championship before switching to Ferrari?

With seven titles already to his name, one more would set him apart in F1 history, making his impending move to Ferrari all the more poignant.

Let’s take a look at the current Top 10 drivers in F1 history

Michael Schumacher remains one of the most iconic figures in Formula 1, with a record-tying seven World Championships and 91 race victories. His dominance with Ferrari in the early 2000’s set new standards in the sport.

Schumacher’s ability to push both his car and himself to the absolute limit, combined with his relentless work ethic, made him the benchmark for excellence in F1. Despite a challenging comeback later in his career, Schumacher’s legacy as a racing legend is undisputed.

Lewis Hamilton’s career has been nothing short of extraordinary. With seven World Championships and over 100 Grand Prix victories, he has redefined what is possible in Formula 1. Hamilton’s success with Mercedes, including his ability to adapt to different eras of the sport, has made him a global icon.

Now, as he prepares to join Ferrari, the possibility of an eighth title could solidify his status as the greatest of all time, a feat that would surpass even Schumacher’s legendary record.

Ayrton Senna is often hailed as the most naturally gifted driver ever to grace the F1 grid. With three World Championships and a fierce rivalry with Alain Prost, Senna’s career was marked by breath taking performances and an unyielding pursuit of perfection. His mastery in wet conditions and sheer speed during qualifying sessions became the stuff of legend.

Tragically, Senna’s life and career were cut short at Imola in 1994, but his impact on the sport remains profound, influencing generations of drivers.

Juan Manuel Fangio, the “Maestro,” dominated the early years of Formula 1, winning five World Championships in the 1950s—a record that stood for nearly 50 years. Fangio’s success was built on his exceptional skill, intelligence, and ability to win with multiple teams. His calm demeanour under pressure and strategic race craft made him a formidable competitor.

Fangio’s influence on the sport is still felt today, and his legacy as one of the greatest drivers in history remains intact.

Alain Prost, known as “The Professor,” won four World Championships and was renowned for his cerebral approach to racing. Prost’s strategic thinking and precise driving style made him a consistent winner and a master of race craft. His intense rivalry with Ayrton Senna is one of the most famous in F1 history, showcasing two contrasting styles and philosophies.

Prost’s ability to maximise points and minimize risks allowed him to stay competitive across different teams and regulations.

Niki Lauda’s career is a testament to resilience and determination. A three-time World Champion, Lauda is best known for his miraculous recovery from a near-fatal crash at the 1976 German Grand Prix. Just six weeks later, he returned to racing, showcasing incredible bravery and skill. Lauda’s rivalry with James Hunt in 1976 became legendary, and his subsequent titles in 1977 and 1984 solidified his place in F1 history.

Lauda’s influence extended beyond the cockpit, as he became a successful team leader and advisor.

Jackie Stewart, a three-time World Champion, is not only celebrated for his driving skills but also for his pioneering work in improving safety in Formula 1. Stewart’s smooth and calculated driving style earned him the nickname “The Flying Scot.” His advocacy for driver safety led to significant changes in the sport, saving countless lives.

Stewart’s influence on and off the track has left a lasting legacy, and he remains one of the most respected figures in motorsport history.

Jim Clark, a two-time World Champion, is often regarded as one of the most versatile and naturally talented drivers in the history of motorsport. Clark’s ability to win in various types of racing cars, from Formula 1 to IndyCars, set him apart from his peers. His dominance in the 1963 and 1965 seasons, combined with his smooth driving style, made him a fan favourite.

Tragically, Clark’s life was cut short in a racing accident in 1968, but his legacy as a racing legend endures.

Sebastian Vettel’s rise to prominence in Formula 1 was meteoric. Winning four consecutive World Championships with Red Bull Racing from 2010 to 2013, Vettel became the youngest quadruple champion in the sport’s history. His aggressive driving style, combined with his ability to extract maximum performance from his car, made him a dominant force during his peak years.

While his career had ups and downs after his Red Bull tenure, Vettel’s legacy as one of F1’s greats is firmly established.

Fernando Alonso, a two-time World Champion, is widely regarded for his exceptional race craft and adaptability. Alonso’s ability to consistently outperform his machinery, particularly during his years with Ferrari, has earned him respect across the F1 paddock. Known for his relentless determination and strategic mind, Alonso remains a formidable competitor even as he continues to race in his 40s.

His influence on the sport and his legacy as one of the most complete drivers in F1 history are unquestionable.

As Lewis Hamilton prepares to bid farewell to Mercedes and embark on a new journey with Ferrari, his final months with the Silver Arrows are filled with anticipation and pressure.

Securing an eighth World Championship would elevate him to an unprecedented status in Formula 1, solidifying his place as the greatest of all time.

Whether he succeeds or not, Hamilton’s impact on the sport is undeniable. His upcoming move to Ferrari marks the beginning of a new chapter, but his legacy is already etched in the annals of F1 history.