F1 Fans Predict Title Numbers for the Likes of Norris and Leclerc for the Next Decade

When F1 fans make their predictions, they sure go all out! Recently, WTF1 host, Mark Gallagher asked his followers to predict the number of titles seven drivers would get before the year 2030.

Gallagher gave fans the following drivers: Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen, Charles Leclerc, Lando Norris, George Russell, Daniel Ricciardo, and Carlos Sainz. A competitive and mixed list with a majority of the younger drivers. Although the list doesn’t make room for future additions, switching drivers, etc.; the combination of Mercedes, Red Bull, McLaren, and Ferrari drivers is a good ballpark.

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Fans predict F1 champions in 10 years

Hamilton’s numbers split the fans. Some believe Hamilton will remain a seven-time champion till 2023; leaving Schumacher’s record unbroken. Others stop at 8.

Similarly, with Verstappen, there was debate. Even if he beats Hamilton this season; fans believe that the likes of Norris, Leclerc, and Russell will impede him from getting numbers over 5.

Looking at the commonality of zero titles between Daniel Ricciardo and Carlos Sainz was grim. However, the Honey Badger fans soon stepped up to give their driver at least one title before his possible retirement within 10 years. Likewise, the Chilli fans stepped in to support their driver; many argued the Sainz too, has at least one title to his name.

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As fans gave their opinions on Matt’s top 7 predictions, others were left searching for the rest of the grid.

Some predicted a newbie taking the title. Names like Theo Pourchaire and Oscar Piastri were a few names featured in the comments. Nonetheless, ten years is a long time; anything is possible in Formula 1.

Analyzing predictions

The list is tricky. With Hamilton and Verstappen, it remains uncertain who will win the  2021 championship. With the way things are going this season, it could go either way. However, if Hamilton were to win this season, it’s unlikely he will win titles further than the eighth.

Looking at Hamilton, who won 7 titles in 14 years, Verstappen is likely to hit the four-five margin over the next ten years. Verstappen will dominate the decade ahead, remaining in contention throughout. However, with drivers like Russell, Leclerc, and Norris, it’s dubious that his streak will last long.

As George Russell adapts to the Mercedes, and with Hamilton’s eventual retirement; Russell will be the perfect candidate to carry the Mercedes name forward in the championship battle. However, he will face stiff competition from Lando Norris and Charles Leclerc, who have been on an upward path with their respective teams.

What remains disheartening is that Daniel Ricciardo, Carlos Sainz, and even Pierre Gasly might not lift the championship trophy. At 31, the odds are against Ricciardo bagging a title by 2030. Both Ricciardo and Sainz have the talent for the title, yet the opportunities will slip away for the two drivers. Gasly, if given the prestigious Red Bull seat, might have a shot.

However, F1 remains as unpredictable as ever. In a sport where 20 of the best drivers in the world are made to compete against each other, the competition for the best of the best remains tight. Ten years is a long time; anything is possible.