2012
To think of a double world champion in a Ferrari being an underdog may be a bit of a stretch, but that’s how it was all year. It was Alonso's, focus, determination, and opportunism while handling the third or fourth fastest car on the grid that merits his status as the super elite. He drove the wheels off that red car. The respect that he gained across the paddock was as much for his perseverance as for his never giving up attitude. He fell short by 4 points of a truly stunning achievement, but his legend grew. Hamilton won more races, and he was better than the previous year, as he trumped Button again. However, the season belonged to the man from Oviedo.
Races won: Hamilton 4 Alonso 3
Poles: Hamilton 7 Alonso 2
Podiums: Hamilton 7 Alonso 13
Championship Standing: Hamilton (190 points) 4th | Alonso (278 points) 2nd