2017 Season

Lewis Hamilton won the Drivers’ Championship, driving for Mercedes, in a season that comprised 20 races. Mercedes also secured the Constructors’ Championship, finishing with 668 points and 12 wins. The season featured five different race winners: Hamilton (9), Sebastian Vettel (5), Valtteri Bottas (3), Max Verstappen (2), and Daniel Ricciardo (1).

The title battle was closely contested for much of the year. Vettel led the standings after the opening rounds, holding a points advantage through the first half of the season. By round 10, Vettel led Hamilton by just one point (177 to 176). Hamilton overtook Vettel after the Italian Grand Prix (round 13), and from that point, he extended his lead, ultimately finishing with 363 points to Vettel’s 317. Bottas finished third in the drivers’ standings with 305 points.

The season was notable for its competitive balance between Mercedes and Ferrari, especially in the early stages. Mercedes gradually asserted dominance in the latter half, reflected in their growing points gap in both championships. Hamilton achieved 11 pole positions, while Vettel and Bottas each secured four.

The 2017 season occurred during a regulation era marked by wider cars and increased downforce, which contributed to changes in race dynamics. There were 16 retirements due to engine failures and a significant number of incidents attributed to accidents and collisions. The year also saw Lance Stroll achieve his first podium. The season stands out for its mid-season title fight and Mercedes’ continued success in the hybrid era.