Hamilton 'impresses' F1 analyst as Verstappen is snubbed from top five list

With the cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix, Formula 1 entered a month-long break ahead of the weekend in Miami.

Former driver and current analyst Hinchcliffe also reviewed the five drivers who impressed him the most during the opening rounds of the 2026 season.

A revived Lewis Hamilton headlines the Canadian's list, and he is the only world champion selected by Hinchcliffe, as Max Verstappen, Lando Norris and Fernando Alonso are all missing.

The Briton managed to score his first podium with Ferrari at the Chinese Grand Prix, and had many exciting battles with his teammate, Charles Leclerc.

Hinchcliffe writes: "It showed that Hamilton is still willing and perfectly able to go toe-to-toe with one of the best in the business. Seeing him finally lift a trophy in a GP for the Scuderia was a real highlight of the year so far."

He added: "That said, he always runs well there, and is pretty formidable in Australia historically. With Leclerc having his number all weekend in Japan, I will be watching closely to see if this competitiveness continues or takes a similar trajectory as last season. Here’s hoping for the former."

Hamilton is joined by fellow Briton Oliver Bearman, who is currently seventh in the standings with 17 points.

Kimi Antonelli became the youngest ever drivers' championship leader after his victory at the Suzuka Circuit. He is currently nine points ahead of his Mercedes teammate, George Russell.

"Don’t get me wrong, I am not saying that I think he has the better of George Russell… yet. But these first three rounds have shown that the potential that Toto Wolff has been speaking about for years is truly being realized on the biggest stage," Hinchcliffe adds.

Despite finishing a single Grand Prix so far in 2026, Oscar Piastri also made the list. The Australian managed to start his first race of the season only in Japan, where he finished on the podium.

Pierre Gasly also makes an appearance. The Frenchman finished every race inside the Top 10 so far this year.