The 2025 Formula 1 Season: A Year of Change and Controversy
The Formula 1 community is buzzing with anticipation as the 75th season approaches. While the usual predictions of who will win the title and which team will claim the constructors’ championship are a given, there’s a sense that 2025 might be a bit different. Our team of journalists has decided to ask some unique questions about the upcoming season, delving into the areas that might just test their imaginations. Here’s what they had to say about the highlights of the 2025 F1 season.
Main Technical Controversy: The Flexi-Wings Saga Continues
2025 is poised to bring its share of technical controversies, but the most anticipated one is likely to be the ongoing debate over flexi-wings. Ronald Vording suggests that the timing of the clampdown on flexible front wings, which only comes into effect in Barcelona, may cause friction among teams. Alex Kalinauckas echoes this, predicting that the controversy will be a major talking point, especially as teams that didn’t push the envelope as hard in 2024 might feel at a disadvantage. Ben Hunt adds a hopeful note, suggesting that we might finally see a good, old-fashioned engine row, given the current regulations are in their last year. Jake Boxall-Legge, however, takes a more outlandish approach, positing that a wild and innovative design might emerge, only to be banned shortly after. The potential for a ride-height device, similar to the one Red Bull was rumored to have used, could also spark heated discussions.
Horner vs. Wolff: Will the Rivalry Reignite?
The rivalry between Red Bull’s Christian Horner and Mercedes’ Toto Wolff has been a staple of F1 over the years. But with Zak Brown of McLaren now actively prodding Horner, Filip Cleeren believes the next war of words might coincide with Mercedes becoming consistently competitive again. Alex Kalinauckas predicts the rivalry will ignite the first time Max Verstappen and George Russell get anywhere near each other on track, even in testing. Verstappen’s unyielding personality and Russell’s determination to make a mark could lead to some spectacular incidents. Haydn Cobb points out that the courting of Verstappen by Mercedes isn’t over, despite Wolff’s public stance, and suggests that Wolff might continue to drop hints, much to Horner’s chagrin.
First Swearing Fine: Rookies Under Pressure
With the harsher consequences for profanity in F1, the question of who will pick up the first swearing fine of the year is a hot topic. Mark Mann-Bryans has his eye on Yuki Tsunoda, who is likely to be frustrated at being overlooked for the Red Bull seat in favor of Liam Lawson. Ben Hunt, however, thinks it might be Verstappen, given his already tenuous disciplinary status. Kevin Turner, on the other hand, points to Isack Hadjar, the French rookie for Racing Bulls, who has shown a tendency for hot-headed radio comments in F2. Ronald Vording, however, believes that F1 drivers and team PR staff are now more cautious, and he doesn’t think there will be any major fines for swearing this year. Regardless, the pressure on rookies will be intense, and a few choice words might slip through the cracks.
First DNF: Unpredictable Debuts
The first DNF (Did Not Finish) of the season is always a noteworthy moment. Filip Cleeren envisions a dramatic start in Melbourne, with Max Verstappen and Lando Norris clashing in Turn 1 on the first lap. Mark Mann-Bryans, though, feels that Lewis Hamilton might struggle in his transition to Ferrari, particularly in the early races like Australia. Kevin Turner sees potential DNFs for either Andrea Kimi Antonelli or Lance Stroll, citing the former’s speed and the latter’s history of incidents. Ronald Vording and Ben Hunt both agree that Isack Hadjar is a likely candidate for the first DNF, given the chaotic nature of the midfield at the start of the season and Hadjar’s tendency to be hot-headed. The midfield is always unpredictable, and the rookie learning curve could lead to some early retirements.
Worst Livery: Iconic Teams and Shiny Sponsors
When it comes to the aesthetics of the cars, the livery is a crucial element. Haydn Cobb believes Red Bull might have the worst livery, as they tend to stick to the same design year after year, which can get monotonous. Alex Kalinauckas, however, points the finger at Sauber, whose recent liveries have been described as a "Microsoft Paint" approach, particularly last year’s neon green scheme. Ronald Vording agrees that Sauber and Haas are the top contenders for the worst livery, but adds that the Sauber-Stake partnership, while necessary for the team’s financial health, won’t produce any classics. Mark Mann-Bryans, on the other hand, suggests that Racing Bulls might overdo it in their attempt to be cool and trendy, leading to a livery that fails to impress.
Circuits Facing Uncertainty: The Future of the Calendar
The F1 calendar is always a subject of speculation, and 2025 is no different. Alex Kalinauckas predicts that Barcelona will be the circuit to lose, especially with Madrid joining the calendar in 2026. The Montmelo track, while a good test of car designs, has seen too many processional races and offers a less than ideal fan experience, particularly in terms of weather. Erwin Jaeggi, a lover of the Emilia-Romagna region, fears that Imola might not make it past 2025, given F1’s global expansion goals and the likelihood of rotating tracks. Ben Hunt wonders if Mexico will renew its deal post-Sergio Perez, suggesting that his absence could affect ticket sales. Jake Boxall-Legge, while optimistic about Madrid joining the calendar, sees both Imola and Barcelona as vulnerable, with Kyalami, South Africa, potentially filling the 24th race slot as the country pushes for a return to F1.
Rookie Performance: Rising Stars to Watch
With several new drivers joining the grid, the performance of the rookies will be a key area of focus. Ben Hunt is excited about Oliver Bearman at Haas, expecting him to impress despite the lackluster results. Haydn Cobb also picks Bearman, noting his potential to bag headline-grabbing results in the tight midfield. Jake Boxall-Legge, however, believes that while Andrea Kimi Antonelli will showcase raw speed, he might disappoint initially as he adjusts to F1. Bortoleto, driving for Sauber, is his pick for the most impressive rookie, given his stellar F2 and F3 career. Filipino driver Oliver Bortoleto is expected to put Hulkenberg under pressure, and with a bit of luck, could secure a couple of big paydays. The rookies’ journey will be closely watched, and their performances could shape the future of the sport.
Wildest Predictions: From Intra-Antipodean Battles to Triple Championships
As the season approaches, the wildest predictions always make for good entertainment. Alex Kalinauckas imagines a thrilling intra-antipodean battle in Melbourne, where Liam Lawson might flip off Oscar Piastri to the delight of the home crowd. Erwin Jaeggi foresees a nail-biting finale in Abu Dhabi, with Max Verstappen, Lando Norris, and Charles Leclerc all in contention for the World Championship, with Verstappen securing his fifth title. Haydn Cobb takes it a step further, predicting that either Alex Albon or Carlos Sainz might deliver an unexpected victory for Williams. Filip Cleeren, always the optimist, sees Esteban Ocon achieving Haas’ first-ever F1 podium in 2025, a significant milestone for the American team. Despite the high stakes and intense competition, these wild predictions add a touch of excitement and unpredictability to the season.
The 2025 Formula 1 season promises to be a blend of familiar faces, new challenges, and unexpected twists. From technical controversies to rookies under pressure, and from dramatic DNFs to innovative liveries, there’s plenty to keep fans on the edge of their seats. As the teams and drivers prepare for the season ahead, one thing is certain: F1 will continue to captivate and surprise in its 75th year.
