The 2025 Formula 1 season has been a thrilling one, with a level of competitiveness not seen in two decades.
An astonishing 19 of the 21 drivers who have competed this season have finished in the top six at least once.
This is the first time since 2005 that such a wide range of drivers has achieved this feat, highlighting a seismic shift in the sport's pecking order.
The unpredictable nature of the season has led to a number of shock results, with teams like Williams and Haas both finishing in the top six.
The statistic is a clear indication that a number of teams have been able to close the gap to the front of the pack, which has made for a much more exciting and unpredictable season.
The most competitive F1 season since 2005
In 2005, a total of 27 drivers competed in the season, and an astonishing 24 of them finished in the top six at least once.
This record has now been broken, with 19 of the 21 drivers this season finishing in the top six at least once.
The two drivers who have not finished in the top six are Franco Colapinto and Jack Doohan of Alpine.
The two drivers have both had a difficult season and have struggled to score points.
The lack of competitiveness from the French team is a major reason why they are at the bottom of the constructors' championship.
What a competitive season means for the sport
The unpredictability of the season has been a major talking point for fans and pundits, who have praised the competitiveness of the field.
The statistic is a clear indication that a number of teams have been able to close the gap to the front of the pack, which has made for a much more exciting and unpredictable season.
The season has also been a major boost for the sport's global appeal.
The excitement of a close and competitive season has attracted a number of new fans, and the sport is now more popular than ever.