2009

Plans to stand in for injured Felipe Massa at Ferrari fall through due to neck problems, but then announces full-time return with new Ross Brawn-led Mercedes team for 2010.

2006

Takes the title race to the final round, by which time he has already announced his imminent retirement, but ultimately loses out to Fernando Alonso.

2005

Finally loses crown as Ferrari and Bridgestone tyres prove no match for Renault and McLaren rivals. Sole win in depleted US race after Michelin withdrawal. Finishes third in driver standings, helping Ferrari to same place in constructors' championship.

2004

Wins his seventh drivers' championship in style with an amazing 13 victories from 18 races. Retires just once, in Monaco, following controversial collision with Montoya under the safety car.

2003

Pushed hard by the likes of Juan Pablo Montoya and Kimi Raikkonen after a poor start to the season, but fights back to clinch a record sixth drivers' title at the final round in Japan.

2000 - 2002

Wins a hat-trick of drivers' titles, rewriting the record books of the sport in the process. Draws level with Juan Manuel Fangio on five world championships and helps Ferrari to take the constructors' crown in each season as well.

1999

Crashes at the British Grand Prix and breaks his leg. Returns for the Malaysian Grand Prix and helps Ferrari to its first Constructors' Championship since 1983.

1998

Takes the title fight to the last race of the season but then stalls on the grid at Suzuka, losing the championship to Mika Hakkinen.

1997

Finishes second in the drivers' championship, but is then disqualified after a collision with eventual champion Jacques Villeneuve at the final race of the season.

1996

Joins Ferrari and starts on the long process of turning the team's fortunes around. Finishes third in the drivers' championship.

1995

Wins his second drivers' title with Benetton.

1994

Wins his first drivers' championship with Benetton amidst controversy - colliding with nearest rival Damon Hill in the last race of the season.

1993

Benetton no match for rival Williams car. Wins one race en route to fourth in the standings, having retired from seven rounds.

1992

Wins the Belgian Grand Prix and finishes third in the drivers' championship driving for Benetton.

1991

Formula One debut for Jordan, but moves to Benetton after one race. Takes four drivers' championship points.