The GPDA represents the interests of the drivers themselves in all manner of issues including rule changes and penalty systems, both of which have come under the spotlight in the last 12 months.

And chairman Alex Wurz believes the arrival of the latest new members and the 100 per cent unity of the grid “perhaps for the first time in history” is an important step.

"F1 is entering a period of evolution, change and perhaps even a degree of turmoil,” Wurz said.

"They recognise they must be united and represented to face that challenge.

“[The drivers want to] prevent any politics or power fights from ultimately compromising on-track performance.

“The drivers believe unity is fundamental for the sport's success.”

New owners Liberty Media completed their takeover of the sport earlier this year, ousting long-term head honcho Bernie Ecclestone.

The change has seen the sport opened up to the public more, with the ban on social media posts from inside the garage lifted, much to the delight of fans all over the world.

But Wurz believes the GPDA has also had a particular impact on the track with the 2017 cars.

"We are glad that Liberty and their technical research team followed the GPDA's suggestion from more than a year ago, where we wished for a less sensitive airflow concept of aerodynamic-related rules in order to be able to race closer,” Wurz added.

“That's just one example and one of many the drivers have in mind.

"We are all particularly proud that the new cars, with their faster cornering speeds, had such great effect.

"The drivers love them and we have seen an instant increase in viewership and followers.

"The GPDA pushed for this rule direction for the last three years.

“Happy drivers are F1's best sales tool."