Has a F1 rookie ever won the world championship on his debut ?

Question

Has a F1 rookie ever won the world championship on his debut ?

Answer 1

No, but 2 did come close. Lewis Hamilton finished a point behind Kimi Raikkonen and level with Alonso in 2007 (Hamilton was 2nd due to count back), and Jacques Villeneuve finished 19 points behind Damon Hill in 1996. There was a mathematical chance he could win it in the final round, but for that to happen, he would have had to win and Hill would've had to either retire or finish 7th or lower.

Answer 2

Yes. Guiseppe Farina won the inaurgral Formula One World Championship - thus, in his rookie year.



There have been a few "near misses" in recent times...thank god neither Villenueve or Hamilton managed it; we'd still be hearing about it now and their egos would be even bigger than they are now. Believe it or not, immediate success is NOT a good thing.

Answer 3

Lewis Hamilton should have won in his rookie year but a gearbox malfunction and sliding off at China coming ainto the pits put paid to what was still a momentous year.

Answer 4

No, but there have been rookie runner-ups. Hamilton came 2nd then 1st in his first two years of F1 racing, not too bad really!



warheit24, I'd hardly say it's almost impossible when Hamilton did what he did.

Answer 5

yes, guiseppe farina won his first worldchampionship year (albeit, it was the first year of f1 anyway).



some did well in their first year, with jacques villeneuve and hamilton already mentioned. but don´t forget stewart (3rd), peterson (2nd in 2nd year), schumacher (3rd).

Answer 6

Not that I know of Its almost impossible to do it at such a young age without the experience!

Answer 7

nope , Lewis Hamilton nearly did but came second in his first year. He did win in his second year though.

Answer 8

No, but Hamilton came mighty close.

Answer 9

no