Is one turn enough to become F1 Rookie of the Year? In a Formula 1 season with little room for new talent, two rookies managed to stand out: Franco Colapinto and Liam Lawson. Both drivers joined mid-season and made a name for themselves in their own unique ways. Colapinto made a name for himself with an incredible turn in Singapore, while Lawson stood out for his immense physical strength. With one race to go, the question arises — what makes the Rookie of the Year: raw talent or consistent performance?
The Unpredictable Artist: Franco Colapinto
Franco Colapinto is not your typical debutant: daring, unpredictable, and with a knack for spectacular moves. His overtaking maneuver in turn 14 of the Singapore GP was the ultimate proof of this. On one of the most challenging street circuits, Colapinto overtook not one, but three cars in a single turn. The moment required perfect timing, sharpness, courage, and instinct. What made this action even more special is that Singapore is known as a physically grueling race.
That Colapinto made such a master move in only his third race, led to ecstatic reactions from fans: “With this turn, he has put himself on the map,” was a common sentiment. Yet, Colapinto’s style also raises questions about his consistency. His talent is undeniable, but sloppy mistakes have shown that he still needs to grow. Can he perform at this level for an entire season? That remains the question for this raw talent.
The Stable Professional: Liam Lawson
Calmness and a controlled driving style: these are the characteristics that have distinguished Liam Lawson during his debut season. His physical strength and technical control are widely praised. And he managed to score points regularly in his first season. During the Singapore Grand Prix, he achieved an impressive ninth place. And in the United States Grand Prix, he also finished ninth, despite starting from the 19th position due to a grid penalty.
However, he was less noticeable to the general public, as his stable driving style produced few spectacular moments. At the same time, he did cause controversy: his middle finger to Pérez during the Mexico GP led to fierce reactions from fans, some of whom called him a “dirty driver”. Despite the controversy, his solid results make him a rightful contender for the Rookie of the Year title.
Results over Talent?
In a field with many experienced drivers, standing out is an achievement in itself. While Colapinto is seen as a mega talent, Lawson excels in consistency and results. The question remains: what weighs heavier? The flair and raw talent of an unpredictable artist, or the focus and reliability of a rookie who performs right away?
