If you want to explore the big icons of F1, the Formula 1 books will guide you through the most important events of the F1 over time.

Formula 1 books are a great collection of captivating insider stories, providing a peek behind the scenes of this thrilling sport. They offer unique perspectives on the drama, dedication, and rivalries that drive the world of F1, often unknown to casual viewers.

I need to admit, I'm an avid fan of Formula 1 since my childhood. I can even recall that moment when Damon Hill went missing in the last lap in 1997 at Hungarian Grand Prix. So far a lot of things happened, and new faces appeared on the scene, a new generation along with Verstappen, Norris and Russel, that will define the next 10 years of F1.

These books in my collection also serve as a historical record, enriching one's understanding of the sport's evolution and context. Additionally, they detail the impressive technical aspects of F1 racing, showcasing the complex engineering and constant innovations that push the boundaries of speed.

F1 books blend compelling human narratives with intricate technical details, making them an engaging read for any F1 enthusiast.

What Is The Brief History of Formula 1?

Formula One racing is one of the most popular and watched sports in the world. The FIA Formula One World Championship is a series of races that take place all over the world, with the best drivers from around the globe competing for the title. The championship has been running since 1950, and there have been some iconic moments along the way. Here’s a brief look at the history of Formula 1.

The first Formula 1 race took place on May 13th, 1950 at Silverstone Circuit in England. There were only thirteen entrants in that first race, and Italian driver Giuseppe Farina won in his Alfa Romeo 158. The championship has come a long way since then, with technological advancements making the cars faster and more complex every year.

Over the years, there have been some legendary drivers who have competed in Formula 1 (see below).

The sport has seen many changes over the years, both on and off the track. In recent years, F1 has faced criticism for being too expensive and only attracting wealthy drivers. However, the introduction of new regulations in 2017 and the Liberty Media acquisition in 2016 aimed at improving the spectacle of the sport seems to have had a positive effect, with increased viewership numbers.

The next major rule changes are expected in 2026 including the radical change in power unit.

What Are The Most Wanted F1 Books?

Formula One 2024, by Bruce Jones (2024)

Let me begin with a fresh one for this season. In 2024 there are no big changes in contrast with the 2023 season, even the drivers remained in the same teams. This guide serves as an all-encompassing manual for the 2024 Formula 1 season.

This book provides an in-depth look at the Grand Prix calendar, featuring every track that will see action throughout the year. I would also emphasize that 2024 will be an interesting season, especially considering the major shift on the horizon with Lewis Hamilton moving to Ferrari in 2025. This move is bound to cast a different light on his performance and strategy throughout the year.

It also offers a comprehensive review of the 2023 season, detailing the outcomes of the drivers' and constructors' world championships and introduces the new minor rules and regulations set for 2024, making it an indispensable resource for fans.

A Race of Extremes 25 Exceptional Formula 1 Stories, by Roy Lingster (2023)

50+ ratings on Amazon

In this compelling exploration of Formula 1's rich history and exhilarating present, the book captures the essence of one of the most dynamic sports in the world. It stands out for its comprehensive coverage of the sport's evolution over seven decades, offering readers an in-depth look at the legendary drivers, pivotal moments, and groundbreaking records that have defined Formula 1.

The narrative skillfully intertwines tales of tragedy and triumph, providing a balanced view of the sport's highs and lows. Stories of heartbreaking losses on the track, which led to significant advancements in safety measures, are particularly impactful. These accounts are not just historical footnotes but pivotal moments that have shaped the sport into what it is today.

A standout feature of this book is its emphasis on the physical and mental challenges faced by Formula 1 drivers. It provides a fascinating insight into what it takes to compete at the highest level in one of the most demanding sports in the world.

Formula 1: The Official History, by Maurice Hamilton (2022)

1,200+ ratings on Amazon

Formula 1 is one of the most popular and thrilling sports in the world. The Official History is an electrifying account of the F1 phenomenon, telling the complete story of one of the world's most popular, thrill-seeking activities.

From its humble beginnings to its modern-day spectacle, Formula 1 has always been about speed, danger, and excitement. This riveting book takes you on a wild ride through all 71 seasons of this iconic motorsport. Featuring exclusive interviews with top drivers, team owners, and engineers, Formula 1: The Official History offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at this fascinating sport.

Whether you're a diehard fan or just getting started in F1 racing, this book is sure to get your adrenaline pumping! This is a superb illustrated book for the real fans of F1.

Formula One 2023, by Bruce Jones (2023)

330+ ratings on Amazon

Rev those engines, Formula 1 fans – Formula One 2023 is here and it's a bona fide turbo-charged guide to our beloved Grand Prix season. With a meticulous breakdown of every team on the grid, you can get the inside track on everyone from the iconic Ferrari, Red Bull, Mercedes, and Aston Martin, right down to the rising stars. We're talking every driver too – our reigning titans like Charles Leclerc, Max Verstappen, and Lewis Hamilton, plus fresh faces eager to make their mark. And let's not forget the tracks – every classic circuit is there, with a special focus on the shiny new Miami street circuit. You can even relive all the high-octane thrills and spills of the 2022 season with detailed race-by-race reports and stats.

Jones's passion for F1 is palpable in his insightful commentary, which dives deep into the critical talking points and rules tweaks that are set to shape the 2023 season. His prose is accompanied by an absolute goldmine of visuals – vibrant photos, intricate circuit maps, and a stats section that's a speed-freak's dream. This baby even includes the 2022 world championship tables and a fill-in guide for 2023, letting you chart the season's progression in your own personal pit stop. You don't just read this book; you live it. If you love F1, then Formula One 2023 is your passport to the heart of the sport, immersing you in the tire smoke, the strategy, the rivalries, and the sheer thrill of the world's most glamorous motor sport.

Mercedes Formula One Team, by Philip Woods (2025)

This book covers everything a Mercedes fan needs to know – from the struggle and unique techniques applied at the pit stop to Lewis Hamilton, engine engineers, and managers. The team had managed to win pretty much everything since 2014, when rules were changed.

To adapt to engine changes, Mercedes designed a perfect combo – top notch engine and solid chassis. Everything worked perfectly and helped Mercedes win most races. The dominance was unexpected, especially after Redbull’s Sebastian Vettel seemed to be on the wave.

This book celebrates Mercedes and the team's achievements – victories, statistics, pictures, and interviews for everyone who loves this wonderful sport and not just Mercedes fans.

Murray Walker, by Maurice Hamilton (2022)

150+ ratings on Amazon

If you used to watch the original Formula 1 – with the original commentary, you are probably familiar with this voice. Murray Walker was the most popular voice of Formula 1 – exhilarating, fast-paced, and full of tension. He brought the craziness of motor racing to millions of people from all over the world.

He commented on his first major race in 1949. His career went over 50 years. He had a natural enthusiasm for this sport, which made his voice synonymous with Formula 1. His knowledge was also appreciated, as fans could always learn something new.

Murray Walker died in the spring of 2021, and this book explores his life in the smallest details – definitely one of the must-read Formula 1 book out there.

The Boy, by Richard Williams (2021)

210+ ratings on Amazon

To many, Stirling Moss was one of the leading names in Formula 1. He passed away in 2020, almost six decades since he retired. However, his legacy remains. This book covers Formula 1 history, as well as what made Stirling Moss one of the most recognizable names in this industry.

The author has managed to design an authentic portrait of the driver who made people from all over the world fall in love with Formula 1. He became a known figure soon after the war ended – a time when sports were slowly coming back, and the world needed a few heroes.

Stirling Moss became famous in 1947, when he was only 17. His resolution and courage turned him into a role model for Formula 1 fans.

Formula One, by Tony Dodgins, Simon Arron, and Guenther Steiner (2022)

50+ ratings on Amazon

Rules change on a regular basis in Formula 1, and 2022 brought in even more changes, providing even more excitement for fans from all over the world. There are a bunch of technical changes that will add a bit to the spring of these races, but they are also likely to balance things a little.

Authors have analyzed changes over the past decades – all the changes occurring since 1950. Some of them added to the sport, while others balanced it. Different drivers took them differently, and this book aims to explain how some of them have changed the sport forever.

The book is not just about progress, but it is an educational release that also describes the personalities involved.

Formula 1 Technical Insights, by Paolo Filisetti (2019-2023)

Every Formula 1 season out there has some highlights that people remember. However, there is something special about 2020 and 2021 because these two seasons were tightly interconnected. Besides, the pandemic kicked in and made things even more complicated for those involved.

The 2020 season brought in a plethora of developments on cars. After all, it was a short season and many races were repeated on the same circuits. 2021 is what everyone was waiting for and brought in unexpected changes and more competitive races – especially from a technical point of view.

Paolo Filisetti is famous for his analyses and insights, but this book takes things a bit faster because these two seasons were simply special.

The Unknown Kimi Raikkonen, by Kari Hotakainen (2018)

1500+ ratings on Amazon

He was born in October of 1979, and began his driving career in go-karts at the age of ten. Raikkonen entered Formula One in 2001 with Sauber, and moved to McLaren in 2002. After a poor 2003 season, he moved to Ferrari, where he won the Drivers' Championship in 2007. In 2009, he left Ferrari for Lotus, and then returned to Ferrari for the 2014 season.

Raikkonen is known for his aggressive driving style and his “ice-cool” demeanor under pressure. He has also been called “The Kimster” and “The Ice Man”. He was an incredible character of the modern F1 phenomenon and we all love his honesty both in car and in person. This book introduces Kimi and let us peek in in his phenomenal career.

The World of Formula 1, by Michael O’Neill (2022)

Formula 1 has good times and bad times. There are times when everyone watches it all over the world, as well as times when everything slows down. With some recent series based on Formula 1, this book aims to clarify everything, whether you are a die-hard fan or you have just started watching it.

Whether you are interested in teams, tracks, constructors, drivers, circuits, or races, this is one of the most detailed Formula 1 books and brings in everything you need to understand what is going on. Apart from plenty of details, you also gain access to some of the most expressive pictures in the industry.

All in all, the book will get you up to date with the latest developments and changes in Formula 1, especially the ones that turned everything upside down over the past years.

Formula 1's Unsung Pioneers, by Ian Wagstaff (2022)

Some people might be familiar with old school teams in Formula 1. To those who are not, this is a statement of Formula 1 history and will tell you about one of the most impressive British racing teams – BRP, a team that runs between 1958 and 1964 only. It was mostly known for Stirling Moss.

The pioneer driver was in a BRP car in 1962, when he crashed and died. Prior to that, BRP was the first fully sponsored team in this sport. The initiative changed everything in the industry and led other teams to follow the example. The book goes through the whole history of this team.

There are plenty of small details that no one is aware of. There are technical and financial details, as well as specific information about the people who drove it forward – plus, there are about 300 pictures too.

Max: The Dutch Master, by Andre Hoogeboom (2022)

There are no doubts about it – Max Verstappen is one of the new sensations in Formula 1. Born into this sport, he started with a light career in kartine. He turned into the youngest F1 driver in history – before he was even 17.

He secured his first Grand Prix victory in 2016 and became one of the most appreciated young drivers. The biography is not authorized and covers everything he has done so far in Formula 1, as well as a deep analysis of his skills.

There are also a few things that only his close friends know.

Max Verstappen, by James Gray (2022)

260+ ratings on Amazon

Max Verstappen became a wonderkid when he won his first Grand Prix. Things went pretty far, and he did what everyone was expecting to happen – won the title in 2021. There are not too many drivers out there with such a shocking and ascending path.

His destiny was quite clear though – he is the son of Jos and Sophie Kumpen. He made a great impression as a kid and became an international sensation as soon as he joined Formula 1. His aggressive driving style is what makes the difference.

The author aims to understand his skills and nature, but also his fanatical support from fans.

Formula 1, by Peter Nygaard (2022)

You will love this release if you are into Formula 1 history. Ever since it kicked in around the 1950s, Formula 1 has drawn plenty of attention from all over the world. Peter Nygaard releases exclusive information from his personal archives and aims to tell this story in a different manner.

The history goes over one decade at a time. There are over 400 pictures, details about personalities and champions, statistics, incidents, dramas, and changes that have altered the sports overtime – sometimes happy, other times sad.

Technological developments are not to be overlooked either.

The Story of Ferrari, by Stuart Codling (2021)

80+ ratings on Amazon

This book can be described as a celebration of Ferrari and makes one of the most comprehensive Formula 1 books out there – whether or not you are a fan of Ferrari, a team that has brought in champions and has always innovated.

The book analyzes everything – the style and luxurious profile, the innovative upgrades and excellence associated with Ferrari. Every key aspect is explored and understood. It is not all about Formula 1, but also about street models that have redefined the supercar industry.

As if all these were not enough, the book is filled with plenty of pictures to showcase the top models.

Total Competition: Lessons in Strategy from Formula One, Ross Brawn (2016)

1,700+ ratings on Amazon

Total Competition is a book that offers a detailed insight into the world of Formula One and what it takes to succeed in the industry. Written by Ross Brawn, one of the most innovative and successful technical directors and team principals in the history of Formula One, and Adam Parr, former CEO and chairman of Williams, the book provides a comprehensive review of Brawn's career, his methods, and the unique pressures of Formula One.

The book covers Brawn's work with multiple teams including Benetton, Ferrari, Honda, Brawn, and Mercedes, where he worked with world champions such as Michael Schumacher, Jenson Button, and Lewis Hamilton. It also delves into the battles with Bernie Ecclestone and the cut-throat world of Formula One, where coming second is never good enough. Total Competition is not only a must-read for Formula One fans, but it also provides valuable lessons in achieving one's business goals.

Grand Prix's Winning Colours, by Mick Hill (2021)

90+ ratings on Amazon

You just cannot go wrong with this book, whether you are new to Formula 1 or you have been watching it for decades. This colorful book is filled with unique artwork and details about the designers, drivers, and cars that have driven people crazy overtime.

Every winning car is clearly explained, as well as the designers and drivers contributing to its success. It makes a good Formula 1 history book and even analyzes the helmets and equipment drivers were supposed to have.

It covers over 70 years since Formula 1 has started entertaining people.

A Race with Love and Death, by Richard Williams (2020)

225+ ratings on Amazon

This book revolves around Richard Seaman, one of the best drivers to inspire Formula 1 fans – as well as a role model for every British driver. It starts in the 1930s and covers everything, including his personal life, challenges, and struggles – all these while entertaining the whole world.

Dick Seaman was the first British man to win a race while driving a Mercedes-Benz vehicle. He was also the last driver to pass away before World War II began. The book analyzes his evolution, especially in a time when the motor racing industry was dominated by other countries.

He passed away at 26 years old only. Despite his success, his personal life was far from it, especially after he married the BMW founder’s daughter.

Niki Lauda, by Maurice Hamilton (2020)

525+ ratings on Amazon

Niki Lauda is one of the most recognized names in the motor racing industry. He was an incredible driver with fans everywhere, but he also had a sticky personality. Everyone loved him, and everyone appreciated his rivalry with James Hunt. His career is definitely one of the things that defined Formula 1.

His drama began in 1976, when a racing crash left him disfigured. However, he did not give up. He went back to Ferrari and aimed to defend his title. He also won two titles later on. The author also describes the agonizing moments from the race in Japan, when Lauda and Hunt battled until the last moment.

This book is a biography that provides access to some less known details, but it also analyzes some of Niki Lauda’s most impressive achievements. He passed away in Switzerland, in 2019.

How to Build a Car, by Adrian Newey (2017)

6,800+ ratings on Amazon

Adrian Newey OBE, the da Vinci of Formula One design, takes us on an exhilarating, high-octane journey through his career in his compelling memoir, How to Build a Car. This is more than just a book; it's a pit stop into the mind of a man who has relentlessly pushed the boundaries of engineering for over three decades. For those of us who've watched the Grand Prix with bated breath, knowing that a Newey design is on the track, this is our backstage pass to the drama, the triumphs, and the tribulations that shaped his career.

Beginning with a childhood filled with precocious sketches of cars and summer welding courses, Newey shifts gears smoothly into his early career in IndyCar, before slamming the pedal down on his extraordinary journey in Formula One. His collaborations with legendary drivers such as Nigel Mansell, Damon Hill, and Sebastian Vettel read like a who's who of motor racing. And yet, amidst the intoxicating whiff of petrol and burning rubber, Newey never forgets to give us an inside look at the beating heart of every race: the car. From the aerodynamics to the raw power under the hood, Newey’s lucid explanations transform us from spectators to co-pilots in the thrilling world of Formula One.

It’s a testament to the synchronicity of man and machine, a rare glimpse into the perfect blend of style, efficiency, and speed that makes F1 the pinnacle of motor racing.

Formula 1 Portraits, by Gianni Cancellieri (2021)

This is one of the most detailed Formula 1 books out there for those who appreciate Formula 1 history. It is a comprehensive collection of champions, portraits, mechanics, drivers, and other personalities who turned Formula 1 into a worldwide sensation over the 1960s – a must-read for everyone who loves it.

The sport is reviewed and analyzed over the decades and brings in detailed information from one of the most appreciated names in Formula 1 journalism. From Bruce McLaren and Jack Brabham to Ferrari’s innovation, everything is well described – from happy moments to heartbreaking dramas.

The book features a gallery of faces, which includes more or less known characters – each of them with an impressive contribution to Formula 1. Bottom line, this book should be on every fan’s shelf.

Art of the Race, by Darren Heath and Andy Cantillon (2021)

Art of the Race is part of a more comprehensive collection. It is the sixth book and probably the most appealing one for Formula 1 fans. Just like other books in the series, it aims to capture the essence of Formula 1 through a series of unique photographs.

It is said that a picture is worth a thousand words. Unfortunately, when you watch Formula 1, you often miss small details. Photographer Darren Heath has captured key moments that most fans have missed – including Lewis Hamilton’s celebration after winning his sixth title.

There are not too many details in this book, but the pictures make it worth some attention. If you love Formula 1, it should definitely not miss from your collection – a collection of moments rather than pictures.

Who Were The Most Iconic Drivers of F1?

Juan Manuel Fangio

Juan Manuel Fangio was born on June 24th, 1911 in Balcarce, Argentina. He is considered one of the greatest Formula 1 drivers of all time. He began racing in 1934 and won his first championship in 1951. He went on to win five more championships, making him the most successful driver in Formula 1 history. He raced until 1958 and then retired at the ripe age of 47. Fangio is also remembered for his impressive driving skills and his calm demeanor behind the wheel.

Jack Brabham

Jack Brabham was born on April 2, 1926 in Hurstville, Sydney, Australia. He was a racing driver who competed in Formula One from 1955 to 1970. He is the only driver to have won the World Drivers' Championship three times with three different teams ( Cooper, Lotus, and Brabham). He also won two British Grands Prix and the Indianapolis 500.

Brabham started his racing career in 1948, when he entered a hillclimb event in his native Australia. In 1952, he moved to England to compete in Formula Two races. He made his Formula One debut in 1955 with the Cooper team. That year, he finished third in the World Drivers' Championship. In 1959, he won the World Drivers' Championship with the Cooper team.

Jim Clark

Jim Clark was born in Scotland in 1936. He started racing in the early 1950s and was successful from the start. In 1960, he became Formula 1 World Champion. He continued to race until his death in a racing accident in 1968.

Clark was known for his skill as a driver and his ability to make quick decisions. He was also known for being a very private person.

Despite his short career, Clark is considered one of the best drivers in Formula 1 history. He won 25 races and finished on the podium 33 times.

Jackie Stewart

Jackie Stewart, who is considered one of the most successful and influential Formula 1 drivers in history.

Stewart began his racing career in 1965, and quickly established himself as a top competitor. Over the next few years, he won several races and racked up an impressive number of championship points. In 1969, Stewart became Formula 1 World Champion, a title he would go on to win again in 1971. He was also the first racer to earn three titles in a row.

Stewart's accomplishments not only made him one of the best drivers in F1 history, but also helped popularize the sport around the world.

Niki Lauda

Born in Austria in 1949, Niki Lauda was destined to become a champion racecar driver. After making his Formula One debut in 1971, he went on to win three World Championships (1975, 1977, 1984) and became one of the most successful drivers in the history of the sport. He is known for his aggressive driving style and for his near-fatal crash at the 1976 German Grand Prix, which he miraculously survived. After retiring from racing in 1985, Lauda returned to Formula One as a team owner and commentator. He is currently a non-executive chairman of the Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team.

Alain Prost

Alain Prost is a retired French Formula One driver who raced in the sport from 1980 to 1991. He is one of the five drivers to have won at least four championships (the others being Vettel, M. Schumacher, Hamilton, and Juan Manuel Fangio). Prost holded the record for taking part in the most Grand Prix races (198) in the old days of F1 and has the most wins at the prestigious Monaco Grand Prix (six).

Born on February 24, 1955, in Saint-Chamond, France, Prost began his racing career in karting at the age of 14. He made his debut in Formula One at the 1980 French Grand Prix and went on to win 51 races during his career. He retired from Formula One racing after winning his fourth world championship in 1991.

After retiring from Formula One, Prost embarked on a successful career as a team owner and manager in various motor sports series.

Ayrton Senna

Ayrton Senna is considered one of the greatest Formula 1 drivers in history. He was known for his aggressive driving style and his passion for the sport. Senna began racing in Formula 1 in 1984 and quickly became one of the top drivers on the circuit.

He won three world championships and was considered a favorite to win many more. In 1994, Senna was killed in a tragic accident while racing in Italy. His death shocked the racing world and left many fans mourning the loss of one of the sport's greatest icons.

Michael Schumacher

Michael Schumacher is a German race car driver who has had success in Formula One. He is a seven-time Formula One World Champion, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest Formula One drivers of all time.

Schumacher began his career in 1991 with the Jordan team. He then moved to Benetton in 1994, where he won his first Drivers' Championship. In 1995, he moved to Ferrari, and went on to win five titles with them. After retiring from Formula One racing at the end of 2006, Schumacher came out of retirement for three races in 2010 as a replacement for injured Felipe Massa.

He finished second in those three races.

Sebastian Vettel

Born on July 3, 1987, Sebastian Vettel is a German Formula One race car driver who currently drives for Scuderia Ferrari. He is a four-time Formula One World Champion, having won the championship in 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013. He held the record for the youngest driver to win a Formula One Grand Prix before Max Verstappen claimed this title.

Vettel started his racing career in karting at the age of 10. He progressed through the ranks of open-wheel racing, winning races in Formula BMW and Formula Three before making his Formula One debut with Scuderia Toro Rosso at the 2007 United States Grand Prix.

Lewis Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton is one of the most successful Formula 1 drivers in history. He has won seven world championships, and his 103 Grand Prix victories rank him first all-time.

Hamilton began his racing career in karting, and he soon rose through the ranks, winning numerous titles and accolades. In 2007, he made his Formula 1 debut with McLaren, and he quickly became one of the sport's top drivers. After a disappointing season in 2008, Hamilton rebounded in 2009, winning the championship title. He went on to win three more championships with McLaren (2014-2016) before joining Mercedes in 2017. With Mercedes, Hamilton has continued to be one of the sport's top drivers, winning back-to-back championships in 2018, 2019 and 2020.

Max Verstappen

Max Verstappen is a Dutch racing driver who competes in Formula One for Red Bull Racing. He won his first Formula One World Championship in an epic race year, 2021, becoming the youngest ever champion at the age of 24.

Verstappen began his career in karting at the age of 4 and achieved early success by winning various regional and national championships. He moved up to single-seater racing cars in 2013, competing in the FIA European Formula 3 Championship.

Verstappen made his Formula One debut with Scuderia Toro Rosso at the 2015 Australian Grand Prix, replacing Daniil Kvyat who had been promoted to Red Bull Racing. He became the youngest driver to score points in an F1 race when he finished seventh in Malaysia.

He is now a three-time champion (as of March 2024), and he is definitely a front man of a new Formula 1 generation, including George Russel, Charles Leclerc and Lando Norris who are now the best F1 drivers.

Best F1 Books: Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many great books about Formula 1 racing. If you are interested in the sport, these books are a must-read. They provide insight into the history and inner workings of F1, and offer a unique perspective on the sport.

Whether you are a fan of F1 or just want to learn more about it, these books are sure to entertain and educate.

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