New Zealand has contributed a notable roster of drivers to Formula 1, with ten individuals having competed in the sport. This group includes a World Champion and the founder of one of F1’s most successful teams. Their paths to Formula 1 often involved significant personal investment, given the lack of a domestic Grand Prix or a well-funded single-seater ladder in New Zealand.
Bruce McLaren stands as a foundational figure in Formula 1 history. He made his debut in 1958 and secured his first Grand Prix victory at the 1959 United States Grand Prix, becoming the youngest winner at the time. McLaren founded Bruce McLaren Motor Racing in 1963, and his team achieved its first F1 win at the 1968 Belgian Grand Prix. He recorded four wins and 27 podium finishes across 100 starts before his death in 1970 during a test crash.
Denny Hulme remains New Zealand’s sole Formula 1 World Champion. He clinched the title in 1967 with the Brabham team, securing eight race victories and 33 podiums during his career. Hulme, known as ‘The Bear’ for his gruff demeanor, also achieved significant success in the Canadian-American Challenge Cup (Can-Am) series, winning the championship twice.
Chris Amon competed in Formula 1 from 1963 to 1976 and is widely regarded as one of the greatest drivers never to win a championship Grand Prix. Despite his reputation for misfortune, Amon secured 11 podium finishes and five pole positions across 95 starts. He did achieve victories in non-championship F1 races and won the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans with Bruce McLaren.
Howden Ganley participated in 35 World Championship Grands Prix between 1971 and 1974. He scored a total of ten championship points, with his best finish being fourth place at the 1971 United States Grand Prix. Ganley also achieved a second-place finish at the 1972 24 Hours of Le Mans with François Cevert.
Liam Lawson represents New Zealand’s current presence in Formula 1. He made his debut in 2023 as a substitute for Daniel Ricciardo at AlphaTauri, scoring points at the Singapore Grand Prix. Lawson was promoted to Red Bull Racing for the 2025 season but was demoted back to Racing Bulls after two races.
Lawson is currently contracted to Racing Bulls until at least the end of the 2026 season. He has been performing consistently for the team during the current 2026 season, scoring points and maintaining a position ahead of his teammate Arvid Lindblad in the standings.
His career trajectory highlights the competitive nature of Formula 1 and the challenges drivers face within the Red Bull program. Lawson continues to focus on securing a long-term position within the Red Bull stable.
