8. Carlos Sainz - 7.33
The year Sainz emerged from Max Verstappen’s shadow and showed himself worthy of a race winning car in future. 2015 was often hit by reliability issues but this season Sainz could display his potential. The first race without Verstappen alongside him - Spain - was the turning point as he finished sixth in his home race. Felt a podium could have been possible in Monaco but had to settle for eighth, a position he would secure on three consecutive occasions in Austria, Britain and Hungary. Sixth in both the USA and Brazil were further standout drives late on, but another year in Toro Rosso won’t hurt him as there was still the odd inconsistent performance such as Japan where his defence showed it still needs improving.
