Mounting the top step on the F1 podium is a feat so challenging, so exceptional, it has been accomplished by only about 90 men in more than 60 years. Sometimes it takes awhile, even for champions. Part of F1A&G’s “Top Sixes” feature-in-progress.

Driving a Formula One car has always been a challenging, learning experience. It takes time to master racecraft and strategy — to say nothing of securing a ride with a title-contending team. Given huge budgets, it is the backmarker teams which typically hire young drivers, making that first Grand Prix win even more elusive. As these numbers show, however, even World Champions sometimes must wait years to take their first F1 checkered flag. Mika and Jenson deserve accolades for perseverance!