From heart-stopping finales to dramatic comebacks, the Formula 1 races between 1987 and 2010 delivered some of the most exhilarating moments in the sport’s history. Here’s a look at six unforgettable races that showcased the drama, strategy, and sheer excitement of F1:
1. 2008 Brazilian Grand Prix: Hamilton’s Rainy Miracle
The 2008 Brazilian Grand Prix was a showcase of wet-weather drama. Lewis Hamilton needed a fifth-place finish to secure the championship but was lying sixth as the rain intensified. Felipe Massa, driving for Ferrari, looked set to win and claim the title. However, in a dramatic turn, Hamilton overtook Timo Glock on the last corner of the final lap, securing the crucial fifth place and clinching his first world championship by just one point. Massa’s fleeting joy turned to heartbreak as Hamilton’s last-minute heroics changed the outcome.
2. 1987 British Grand Prix: Mansell’s Daring Comeback
The 1987 British Grand Prix at Silverstone highlighted Nigel Mansell’s remarkable determination. Starting on the front row alongside Nelson Piquet, Mansell faced a setback with a technical problem, leaving him 29 seconds behind. In a stunning display, Mansell broke the lap record 11 times as he closed the gap. On the penultimate lap, he executed a thrilling overtaking maneuver at Stowe corner to take the lead, with the crowd erupting in celebration as he crossed the finish line, marking the start of “Mansell-mania.”
3. 2010 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix: Vettel’s Tactical Triumph
The 2010 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix was a high-stakes game of strategy with four drivers in the championship hunt: Sebastian Vettel, Fernando Alonso, Mark Webber, and Lewis Hamilton. The race saw intense strategy as Alonso struggled behind a slower Vitaly Petrov. Vettel navigated the complex tactics to win the race and secure the championship, becoming the youngest-ever F1 World Champion. Alonso’s lost time ultimately cost him the title in a dramatic and strategic finale.
4. 2012 Brazilian Grand Prix: Vettel’s Rain-Soaked Triumph
The 2012 Brazilian Grand Prix provided a dramatic end to the season. With Sebastian Vettel and Fernando Alonso battling for the championship, the race was chaotic due to rain. Vettel, who had fallen to the back of the grid after an early collision, managed to finish in sixth place despite the challenging conditions. Alonso fought valiantly but fell short. Vettel’s performance under pressure secured him the championship, making him the youngest triple world champion.
5. 1992 Monaco Grand Prix: Senna’s Defensive Masterclass
The 1992 Monaco Grand Prix was a testament to Ayrton Senna’s defensive skills. Nigel Mansell, driving a dominant Williams, built a massive lead but suffered a late puncture. After a slow pit stop, Mansell rejoined behind Senna. Despite Mansell’s relentless attempts to overtake, Monaco’s narrow streets made it nearly impossible. Senna’s exceptional defensive driving secured him victory, further cementing his reputation as Monaco’s master.
6. 2007 Brazilian Grand Prix: Räikkönen’s Last-Minute Glory
The 2007 Brazilian Grand Prix featured a dramatic championship finale. Kimi Räikkönen, known for his cool demeanor, clinched the title in a thrilling conclusion. Competing against Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso, Räikkönen’s win, combined with Hamilton’s engine issues that left him in seventh place, allowed Räikkönen to secure the championship. With a final tally of 110 points, Räikkönen edged out Hamilton and Alonso, both of whom finished with 109 points, in one of the closest title battles in recent history.
