Esteban Gutierrez
2013 was a steep learning curve for the Mexican driver. The year didn’t start off well as the rookie struggled to find form in the Sauber amid a financial struggle faced by the Swiss team. But as things started to look up after the Russian funding came through, Gutierrez too found some sublime form, much like his accomplished teammate Nico Hulkenberg ,coupled with the mid-season tyre changes that helped the Sauber gain stability on the track. His best finish was a seventh place in Japan earning him the six points that aided him in finishing the year as the rookie with the highest points. But the Gutierrez will have to prove himself after showing flashes of brilliance but in the end failing to capitalize on some of them. A confirmed drive with Sauber for 2014, however, will do the young driver’s confidence a world of good as he remains a driver with a bright future in Formula One.