F1 drivers with the most grand prix starts before victory

The win came during Norris’ sixth year in the series after being one of F1’s highest-rated drivers for several seasons and coming close to victory numerous times. 

So when Norris finally made that trip to the top step of the podium, it meant he entered the top 10 for the most grand prix starts before a driver’s maiden victory in F1. 

Where does Norris rank as a result and who else is on that list? 

• Grand prix starts before first win: 190 

• First win: 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix 

• Years in F1: 2011 – present  

• Career wins: 6 

• Career starts: 263 

• Championships: 0 

It meant Perez finally won a grand prix at his 190th attempt, which set a record for the longest wait as his whole career up to then had been spent in midfield machinery. Since, however, the floodgates have pretty much opened as Perez moved to Red Bull in 2021 where he has won five grands prix. 

Carlos Sainz, Ferrari, 1st position

Photo by: Mark Sutton / Motorsport Images

• Grand prix starts before first win: 150 

• First win: 2022 British Grand Prix 

• Years in F1: 2015 – present 

• Career wins: 3 

• Career starts: 188 

• Championships: 0