Summer break overview: The best driver performances of 2024 so far

Lewis Hamilton - British Grand Prix

The seven-time world champion scored an incredible victory at home, securing his first since 2021 and a record-breaking ninth British Grand Prix victory. Hamilton held off Verstappen in a dry-wet-dry race. After teammate George Russell retired due to a water system issue, Hamilton didn't crumble under pressure. With a cool, experienced head on his shoulders, he held off a fast-charging Verstappen to take a memorable home victory and won on pure pace. (An honourable mention for George Russell, who performed brilliantly in Belgium. After nailing the one-stop, his victory was stripped after Mercedes under-fuelled his W15. It was a shame for the Brit who would've won from sixth place.)

Lando Norris - Miami Grand Prix

Norris secured his maiden Grand Prix victory in the Sunshine State earlier in the season. The Brit took advantage of a safety car caused by an incident between Kevin Magnussen and Logan Sargeant. At the restart, the McLaren driver held off Verstappen and built up a convincing gap over the rest of the Grand Prix. Norris demonstrated maturity as he brought the car home in first place. A memorable one for his McLaren team.

Max Verstappen - Canadian Grand Prix

Max Verstappen has won seven Grand Prix this season. So, why is Montreal picked here, a race where here didn't even put it on pole position? A fast-charging Lando Norris passed polesitter Russell and Verstappen early on and led until an ill-timed safety car. Like a lot of these performances this season, Verstappen inherited the lead and took advantage. The three-time world champion mastered both restarts, extending the gap behind in tricky conditions at a track where his RB20 was not the favourite. 

Carlos Sainz - Australian Grand Prix

Like Verstappen, Sainz took advantage of his unique situation. The Spaniard claimed his third Grand Prix victory in Australia. Verstappen retired due to a brake issue early on, and Sainz went from strength to strength out in front of Verstappen, who was looking for a record-equalling 10th win in a row. Sainz crossed the line just under two-and-a-half seconds clear of teammate Leclerc for an incredible Ferrari 1-2. Although Sainz hasn't spent much of his career as the leader, the soon-to-be Williams driver was clearly comfortable out front, hence why he makes this list.

Charles Leclerc - Monaco Grand Prix 

Another momentous Ferrari performance was provided by Charles Leclerc. The Monegasque led from lights to flag at home in Monaco, a circuit where he appeared to be 'cursed' previously. Leclerc was cool under pressure and kept second-placed Oscar Piastri at bay throughout the race, eventually crossing the line in first place after managing one set of hard tyres for all 78 laps. It was an impressive display from Leclerc to win his first race in over a year.

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