Australia’s 10 best motorsport icons – Ranked by AI

We decided to let AI loose on a fun challenge: Who are Australia’s most iconic motorsport legends?

Using a mix of data, fan sentiment, and a dash of digital magic, we asked AI to rank the heroes who’ve left tyre marks on Australia’s motorsport history.

And guess what? The results are surprisingly spot on.

From household names to underdog champions, the list captures the spirit of Aussie motorsport in a way that might just make you nod in agreement or spark a heated debate.

Scroll down to see who made the cut. Do you agree with the rankings?

1. Sir Jack Brabham (Formula 1®)

A true pioneer of motorsport, Sir Jack Brabham is the only driver in history to win a Formula 1® World Championship in a car he built himself. With three world titles (1959, 1960, 1966), Brabham not only dominated on track but revolutionised the sport off it. His legacy lives on through the Brabham racing name and his influence on engineering excellence.

2. Mick Doohan (MotoGP™)

One of the most dominant figures in motorcycle racing, Mick Doohan won five consecutive 500cc World Championships from 1994 to 1998. Known for his aggressive riding style and resilience, especially after a near career-ending crash in 1992, Doohan became synonymous with Honda’s golden era and remains a benchmark for Aussie grit on two wheels.

3. Peter Brock (Touring Cars)

The King of the Mountain is a name that needs no introduction in Australian motorsport. With nine Bathurst 1000 victories and a career that spanned decades, Brock was more than just a driver. He was a national icon. His connection to Holden and his charismatic presence made him a household name and a symbol of Aussie racing spirit.

4. Alan Jones (Formula 1®)

Australia’s second Formula 1® World Champion, Alan Jones claimed the 1980 title with Williams. Known for his no-nonsense attitude and fierce competitiveness, Jones helped establish Williams as a powerhouse in Formula 1®. His success paved the way for future Aussie drivers and remains a high point in our motorsport history.

5. Casey Stoner (MotoGP™)

A two-time MotoGP™ World Champion in 2007 and 2011, Stoner was known for his raw speed and ability to tame the notoriously difficult Ducati. He beat legends like Valentino Rossi and Jorge Lorenzo at their peak, and despite retiring young, his impact on the sport is undeniable. He also conquered his home race at Phillip Island six consecutive times from 2007 to 2012, a feat that cemented his status as a national hero. Elevated to Legend status in the Australian Motorsport Hall of Fame in 2025.

6. Mark Webber (Formula 1®)

Webber’s Formula 1® career spanned over a decade, with nine Grand Prix wins and a key role in Red Bull Racing’s rise to dominance. Known for his professionalism, sharp racecraft, and candid interviews, Webber also won the FIA World Endurance Championship in 2015. He’s now a mentor and manager to rising star Oscar Piastri.

7. Daniel Ricciardo (Formula 1®)

The Honey Badger brought flair, fun, and fearless overtaking to Formula 1®. With eight Grand Prix wins and a reputation for late-braking heroics, Ricciardo became a fan favourite worldwide. His charisma off-track and tenacity on it have made him one of Australia’s most beloved modern motorsport figures.

8. Oscar Piastri (Formula 1®)

The future of Aussie motorsport is already making serious waves. With multiple Grand Prix wins under his belt, Piastri has proven he’s not just a rising star but a genuine contender. Calm under pressure, technically brilliant, and mentored by Mark Webber, he’s showing all the signs of a future world champion. Expect him to rocket up this list over the next few years. The Melburnian’s got pace, brains, and ice in his veins.

9. Troy Bayliss (World Superbike and MotoGP™)

A three-time World Superbike Champion, Bayliss was known for his aggressive style and ability to win on multiple manufacturers. He had a brief but impressive MotoGP™ stint, including a win in Valencia in 2006. Bayliss helped put Australian superbike racing on the global map.

10. Larry Perkins (Touring Cars and F1®)

A six-time Bathurst winner and former Formula 1® driver, Perkins was as much an engineer as he was a racer. Known for his technical acumen and straight-talking attitude, he built and ran his own team in the Australian Touring Car Championship. A true embodiment of Aussie motorsport DIY spirit, Perkins is honoured at the Australian Grand Prix™ with the Larry Perkins Trophy, awarded to the Supercars driver who accumulates the most points across the event’s races.