The Spanish Grand Prix at Barcelona provided a clearer picture of the current F1 team hierarchy. Based on recent race data and car evolution from 2023 to now, here’s our analysis of the grid’s pecking order. Note: This ranking excludes data from the rain-affected Canadian GP, the cancelled Emilia Romagna GP, and the returning Chinese GP.
10. Williams
Williams has made strides since 2023, occasionally showing decent performance. However, they remain the backmarkers. Alex Albon’s points at Monaco are a rare highlight, and unless racing conditions get wild, they are not expected to compete for points soon.
9. Kick Sauber
Kick Sauber’s season has been underwhelming. Despite a slight improvement in Spain, they remain far from scoring points. As they prepare for an ambitious future with Audi in 2026, substantial improvement is needed.
8. Haas F1 Team
Haas has moved up from the bottom of the grid in 2023, thanks to standout performances by Nico Hülkenberg and others. Yet, their competitiveness remains limited, and they have been outpaced in the development race by teams like Alpine.
7. Team RB
After a tough 2023, Team RB has already surpassed their previous season’s points tally. Yuki Tsunoda’s form and Daniel Ricciardo’s resurgence have been promising. However, recent upgrades backfired, causing a setback in their midfield battle.
6. Aston Martin
Aston Martin is trending downwards as their upgrades fail to deliver. Despite Fernando Alonso’s insights on their car’s flaws, the team struggles to keep up with rivals. They need effective updates to rectify the AMR24’s performance issues.
5. Alpine
Alpine’s progress has been sluggish compared to last season. Despite a positive showing in Spain and Flavio Briatore’s return, they have underperformed. Their position ahead of Aston Martin and Team RB is tentative and circuit-dependent.
4. Mercedes
Mercedes is not yet confirmed as the third fastest team. Despite promising signs in Canada and Spain, they need more consistent performances. Their new front wing has improved the W15’s stability, and optimism is growing within the team.
3. Ferrari
Ferrari is precariously holding onto third place. Mercedes is closing in, and recent updates have fallen short. Despite narrow margins in Barcelona, Ferrari’s performance lags slightly behind Mercedes, suggesting a potential shift in the near future.
2. Red Bull
Red Bull’s dominance has waned, relying heavily on Max Verstappen’s skill. Sergio Perez’s struggles highlight the RB20’s difficulties, especially on challenging tracks. Without significant upgrades, Red Bull may continue to lose ground to rivals.
1. McLaren
McLaren has made a stunning turnaround, becoming the most powerful car on the grid. Since introducing major upgrades in Miami, they have consistently led in both qualifying and race pace. Despite some costly mistakes, McLaren’s MCL38 is the car to beat. Their dominance could be challenged by Red Bull’s future upgrades, but for now, McLaren reigns supreme.
In a season marked by tight competition, the order of teams, especially in the midfield, is subject to change based on circuit characteristics. McLaren leads the pack, with Mercedes closing in on Ferrari, while Red Bull and others strive to catch up.
