2025 Formula One is shaping up to be an absolute ripper! After a thrilling 2024, there are so many stories to look forward to this season. Let’s dive into the major changes and expectations for the teams and drivers.
Lewis Hamilton Joins Ferrari
First up, we have Lewis Hamilton in Ferrari red. This move has been anticipated for just shy of a year. The big question is: will he come in wearing his fashionable gear, or will Ferrari make him don the team kit? I’m betting on Hamilton’s signature style making an appearance. It’s a crucial part of who he is, and it would be disappointing not to see him dressed to the nines.
Will he be pulling off stunts like Carlos did with Charles? Probably not, but who knows? Maybe he’ll loosen up and play the team game. The real question is whether he’ll be faster than he was at Mercedes. I think so, but will he outpace Charles Leclerc? That remains to be seen. Their dynamic will be interesting, especially with Hamilton being a seven-time world champion. Can Ferrari finally step up and clinch a world championship after 17 years?
Red Bull Racing’s New Lineup
Now, onto Red Bull. They’ve had their share of dramas, losing Sergio Perez but gaining Liam Lawson. The pressure on Liam is immense; he needs to show results quickly, or he could find himself out like Pierre Gasly and Alex Albon. His role will primarily be to support Max Verstappen, especially in the season’s early half as he acclimates to the car. Despite winning the Drivers’ Championship, Red Bull fell from first to third in the paddock last year, and there are lingering concerns about team stability.
Mercedes: George Russell and Kimi Antonelli
With Kimi Antonelli stepping into Hamilton’s former seat, we have George Russell facing a new challenge. Having proven himself as a performer, Russell will need to fend off the young talent snapping at his heels. It’s a dynamic to keep an eye on!
McLaren’s Championship Hopes
Over at McLaren, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri are ready to battle it out. Lando is the favourite for the driver’s championship this year, and with the regulation changes coming in 2026, this could be his best shot. The competition between him and Oscar is expected to be fierce, especially after their strong performances in the latter part of last season. McLaren is also a frontrunner for the Constructors’ Championship.
Aston Martin: A New Era with Adrian Newey
Adrian Newey joins Aston Martin, but don’t expect any radical changes until 2026. Lance Stroll and Fernando Alonso will be behind the wheel. Stroll’s commitment has often been questioned, as he seems to be racing more for his father than for himself. However, the car’s improvements towards the end of last season provide hope for Alonso.
Alpine’s Fresh Faces
Alpine retains Pierre Gasly, who had a solid finish to the last season, but they also welcome newcomer Jack Doohan. He’ll need to apply pressure on Gasly early on; otherwise, he might find himself in a precarious position, especially with other hungry drivers like Franco Colapinto waiting in the wings.
Williams: Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon
Exciting changes are happening at Williams with Carlos Sainz joining Alex Albon. Carlos will certainly face more pressure than in previous seasons, but the team seems to be looking towards 2026 for a significant turnaround. Expect less media scrutiny at the back of the grid, which might be a relief for Sainz.
Racing Bulls: Yuki Tsunoda and Isack Hadjar
Yuki Tsunoda is eager to impress after missing out on the Red Bull seat. He’ll need to dominate over rookie Isack Hadjar to solidify his position and keep his career on track. The entry of three rookies this year will certainly make for some interesting on-track dynamics!
Sauber and Haas Updates
Nico Hulkenberg transfers from Haas to Sauber, where he’ll team up with Gabriel Bortoletto. Their contrasting styles—Hulkenberg’s experience and Bortoletto’s youthful enthusiasm—should make for an exciting pairing. Meanwhile, Haas welcomes Esteban Ocon and Oliver Bearman, with Ocon potentially surprising us with his performance.
What’s New in 2025?
Looking forward, Drive to Survive returns for its seventh season, set to premiere during the Bahrain testing period, and there’s a highly anticipated Formula One movie launching around the Austrian Grand Prix in June. This film could draw more fans to the sport, which could have both positive and negative impacts.
The season kicks off in Australia, shifting from Bahrain, and we can expect some interesting dynamics with Ramadan affecting scheduling. Additionally, three standalone races will close out the year: Azerbaijan, Singapore, and Brazil.
FAQ
What are the major changes in the 2025 F1 season?
Key changes include Lewis Hamilton joining Ferrari, Adrian Newey moving to Aston Martin, and a host of rookies entering the grid, including Isack Hadjar and Jack Doohan.
Who are the favorites for the 2025 driver’s championship?
Lando Norris is currently the favourite, with strong competition from Oscar Piastri and George Russell.
When does the 2025 F1 season start?
The season kicks off in Australia, with the first race taking place two weeks later than last year’s opener.