History: A tough triple header awaits Verstappen, Hamilton & the F1 circus

The Formula 1 drivers are out of action this weekend, but a tough triple-header awaits them after that. With the Grands Prix of Mexico, Brazil and Qatar on the schedule the teams will have to work hard to ensure a good end to the season. Which driver has actually won the most times in a triple-header?

The phenomenon has only existed since 2018 when the circuits in France, Austria and England were the first stage for three races in three weeks. By doing so, the FIA was trying to increase the number of races in the Formula 1 calendar so that it generated more revenue. Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen and Sebastian Vettel were the winners of the races three years ago.

Two years later, the coronavirus crisis caused the racing season to start a lot later than usual, forcing the FIA to shift the calendar. It meant that the teams had to prepare for no less than four triple-header races. Hamilton won no less than seven races, while Verstappen had to settle for two victories. Valtteri Bottas, Pierre Gasly and Sergio Perez also won.

So far this season, the teams have had two triple-headers. While they first had to get ready for the races in France, Styria and Austria, they then had to attend the GP's in Belgium, The Netherlands and Italy. Verstappen emerged victorious in no fewer than five of the six GPs. Due to the collision between Verstappen and Hamilton, Daniel Ricciardo won the Italian GP.

When comparing Hamilton and Verstappen in the triple-headers, something striking emerges: both drivers have achieved eight victories so far. This shows again that both drivers are well matched. Ricciardo, Bottas, Perez, Vettel and Gasly all finished on the highest podium once, which means that the upcoming GPs seem to turn into a battle between the two leaders in the world championship once again.