Alex Albon wins "Rookie of the year" at FIA prize gala

Alexander Albon had the chance to display his talent in two different teams during the 2019 Formula 1 season. The now Aston Martin Red Bull Racing driver claimed the rookie of the year award at the FIA's annual prize gala. The British-Thai driver scored 92 points to finish eighth in the F1 world championship.

Albon failed to stand on the podium during the season, while Max Verstappen finished inside the top three four times since Albon had joined Red Bull Racing. But the 23-year-old demonstrated good pace and perhaps should have finished inside the top three in Brazil. That was until Lewis Hamilton tapped him.

Albon becomes the fifth different winner of the award which has been a category since 2014. He takes the trophy from Charles Leclerc who won it in both 2018 and 2017 for his performances in Formula 1 and Formula 2.

Daniil Kvyat won the award in its first year before handing it to Verstappen. The trophy then moved across to the European Rallycross which saw Kevin Hansen win in 2016.