The #2 drivers obscure the #1's brilliance: How F1 teams stack up in qualifying

14:16, 10 Aug

byNorberto Mujica

As Formula 1 heads into the summer break following the 14th round of the championship, the Hungarian Grand Prix, one-lap pace remains a clear indicator of who will be fighting up front.

Here’s how teams stack up on average starting grid positions, combining both drivers’ performances to reveal the true strength of each outfit.

McLaren – Oscar Piastri (2.14), Lando Norris (3.29) - Team average: 2.7

Ferrari – Charles Leclerc (5.14), Lewis Hamilton (8.0) - Team average: 6.6

Mercedes – George Russell (4.43), Kimi Antonelli (9.21) - Team average: 6.8

Red Bull – Max Verstappen (3.5), Yuki Tsunoda (12.36) - Team average: 7.9

McLaren ahead, whilst number 2's sink the number 1's efforts

McLaren’s exceptional 2.7 average grid slot places them miles ahead of the competition on Saturdays, highlighting the pace and consistency that has characterised their dominant season.

This level of qualifying superiority has played a rather significant role in their commanding position in the Constructors’ Championship, allowing the team to control race strategy from the front.

Even on circuits where weather conditions level the playing field, McLaren’s ability to lock out the front row or to qualify in the top 3 at least has kept the pressure firmly on their rivals.

By contrast, teams like Red Bull, Ferrari and Mercedes have been held back by one weaker qualifier in the pairing, inflating their team average despite flashes of brilliance.

The Scuderia's numbers also underline how their Saturday form is still well away from tipping them to capitalise on any given Sunday.