Number 6. Michael Schumacher and Rubens Barrichello (2000-2005)
When flipping through the pages of Formula 1 history, one cannot overlook the remarkable achievements of Michael Schumacher and his five consecutive Drivers’ Championship titles. However, it would be remiss to neglect the vital role played by Rubens Barrichello during that era.
While Sergio Perez is often lauded for his adept teamwork, it was Barrichello who truly defined the role of a supportive teammate. Together with Schumacher, they formed a formidable partnership that saw them triumph in an impressive 56% of the races they contested. Their combined efforts led to an astounding 126 podium finishes and an impressive tally of 24 one-two finishes.
Their collaboration at Ferrari not only secured personal success but also contributed significantly to the team’s overall accomplishments. With Barrichello’s unwavering commitment to prioritizing the collective effort, they clinched an impressive five Constructors’ Championships for the storied Italian outfit. While Schumacher undoubtedly shone as the star and focal point, Barrichello epitomized the essence of selflessness and demonstrated the importance of putting the team’s interests above individual glory.
This paradigm of a star-wingman dynamic has since become a winning formula in Formula 1, and both Mercedes and Red Bull have successfully replicated this approach in their respective teams. The enduring legacy of Barrichello’s selfless contribution to Schumacher’s success has left an indelible mark on the sport, reminding us of the crucial role played by supportive teammates in the pursuit of Formula 1 greatness.
Number 7. Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber (2009-2013)
The arrival of a young prodigy has a remarkable way of igniting a competitive fire within seasoned drivers. Mark Webber, the seasoned Australian, had already spent two years at Red Bull when a fresh-faced Sebastian Vettel burst onto the scene. While both drivers narrowly missed out on the fairy-tale Brawn success story in 2009, it wasn’t long before they transformed into an unstoppable force.
The 2010 Formula 1 season witnessed a staggering display of dominance by Red Bull, with their drivers claiming victory in nearly half of the races. Sebastian Vettel emerged as the frontrunner, securing just one more win than his Australian counterpart, Mark Webber. However, the raw statistics fail to capture the true essence of their intense rivalry.
The infamous “multi-21” incident, etched in the annals of Formula 1 history, was a direct consequence of the unwavering belief each driver had in their ability to outshine the other. It epitomized the fierce competition that propelled both drivers to new heights of excellence. Together, they formed a dynamic duo that dominated the sport during the early 2010s.
Their battle on the track wasn’t solely defined by numbers or statistics. It was a relentless quest for personal and collective improvement—a testament to their unwavering determination and the unyielding pursuit of success. As they pushed each other to the limits, their rivalry became synonymous with the golden era of Red Bull Racing, forever etching their names in the rich tapestry of Formula 1 lore.
Number 8. Sebastian Vettel and Charles Leclerc (2019-2020)
In the realm of Formula 1, the passing of the torch from a master to a student is a delicate dance, often perceived differently by those involved. Charles Leclerc’s arrival at Ferrari coincided with a new wave of talent emerging in the F1 world, creating a compelling dynamic within the team.
In 2019, the Monegasque driver stepped into the hallowed halls of the Maranello outfit, finding himself paired with none other than four-time World Champion, Sebastian Vettel. Although Vettel’s reputation may not have been as sterling as it was during his Red Bull glory days, he remained widely regarded as one of the most formidable drivers on the grid. Had it not been for the dominant Mercedes era, there is a distinct possibility that Vettel could have become the first Ferrari driver since Kimi Räikkönen to claim the coveted championship title.
