Only two F1 drivers in ESPN's World Fame 100 rankings

40

Formula 1 drivers still have a way to go to increase their fame within the sports community, according to ESPN's annual World Fame 100 rankings.

Ben Alamar, ESPN's director of analytics, devised a formula that combines endorsements with social media following and internet search popularity to create the list.

The ranking is topped by football megastar Cristiano Ronaldo followed by LeBron James, Lionel Messi, Roger Federer, Phil Mickelson, Neymar, Usain Bolt, Kevin Durant, Rafael Nadal and Tiger Woods.

Scenes from the paddock - Monaco

Only four racing drivers appear in the standings, two of which are from NASCAR.

Dale Earnhardt Jr was the highest ranked athlete from the motor racing community in 69th place while Lewis Hamilton was all the way down in 84th position, a surprise given the three-time world champion's exposure and popularity on social media.

Jimmy Johnson ranked 86th, six spots in front of the list's second F1 driver which happens to be Felipe Massa.

“Want to win a trackday experience? All you have to do is subscribe to our FREE newsletter HERE”

Gallery: All the pictures from Sunday in Monaco

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.