Extraordinary wet-weather driving mastery, famously earning the moniker 'Regenmeister'.

Pioneered modern F1 fitness standards and fostered immense team-building loyalty that rebuilt Ferrari.

Unrivaled consistency and tactical execution, capable of stringing together qualifying-speed laps in race trim.

A ruthless 'win-at-all-costs' mindset that prompted major on-track controversies (e.g., 1994 Adelaide and 1997 Jerez).

Occasional ethical overreaches under extreme pressure, most notably deliberately parking at Rascasse during Monaco qualifying in 2006.

Struggled to match his legendary peak during his 2010–2012 Mercedes comeback against a faster, younger generation.

Exceptional football IQ and link-up play that redefine the modern complete striker

Prolific big-game mentality and clutch finishing, highlighted by his 2022 Ballon d'Or campaign

Remarkable longevity and adaptability as Real Madrid's second all-time top goalscorer

High-profile off-pitch legal controversies, notably the long-running Valbuena scandal

Fraught history and extended estrangement from the French national team setup

Susceptibility to late-career muscular injuries that disrupted major tournaments like the 2022 World Cup