Max Verstappen claims staggering accolade despite early Red Bull struggles

The 2025 Formula 1 season produced one of the closest statistical battles in recent memory, with Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri separated by just two laps in terms of race leadership across the campaign.

Verstappen's 454 laps led marginally eclipsed Piastri's impressive 452-lap tally, highlighting the McLaren driver's exceptional consistency throughout his campaign alongside team-mate Lando Norris. 

The Australian's remarkable output becomes even more striking when considering he almost matched Verstappen's laps led total despite McLaren operating as a genuine two-car operation.

Norris, who claimed his maiden drivers' title, contributed 373 laps led to McLaren's dominant season, with the pair combining for 825 laps at the front. 

This statistic highlights McLaren's stranglehold over the championship, where they secured both titles – the constructors' by a commanding margin. 

George Russell's 103 laps led provided the season's most significant surprise outside the top three, suggesting Mercedes found genuine race-winning pace at select circuits. 

The Briton's lap leadership dwarfed Charles Leclerc's small 48-lap total, indicating Ferrari's struggles to convert pace into consistent front-running performances.

Perhaps most telling was Lewis Hamilton's dismal two-lap contribution, marking a stark contrast to his illustrious career. The seven-time champion's minimal impact at the sharp end emphasised Ferrari's difficulties in 2025, with the Scuderia failing to provide either driver with machinery capable of sustained race leadership.

Kimi Antonelli's 11 laps led offered promise for Mercedes' future, while Alex Albon's single lap showcased Williams' occasional competitiveness.

Check out the full table below of the most laps led in 2025!