The 2025 Formula 1 Season: Everything You Need to Know
The Season Begins in Australia
The highly anticipated 2025 Formula 1 season kicks off in Australia, marking the first time since 2019 that the opening race is held in Melbourne. With new driver lineups, technical changes, and a packed 24-race calendar, this season promises to deliver thrilling action and intense rivalries. However, one question looms large: Can anyone stop Max Verstappen from claiming his fifth consecutive championship title?
How to Watch the 2025 F1 Season
Fans across the globe can catch every moment of the action through various broadcasters:
- United States: ESPN will provide comprehensive coverage of all races.
- United Kingdom: Sky Sports will continue its exclusive broadcasting rights.
- Other Regions: Check with local sports networks for coverage.
New Faces, New Places: Major Driver Moves
One of the biggest stories of the offseason was Lewis Hamilton’s shocking switch from Mercedes to Ferrari. The seven-time world champion replaces Carlos Sainz and partners with Charles Leclerc, bringing immense experience and ambition to the Italian team.
Other Key Driver Changes:
- Carlos Sainz moves to Williams after losing his Ferrari seat.
- Liam Lawson replaces Sergio Pérez at Red Bull, making his full-time F1 debut.
- Andrea Kimi Antonelli, an 18-year-old sensation, replaces Hamilton at Mercedes.
- Haas welcomes Esteban Ocon and Oliver Bearman to its driver lineup.
- Sauber brings in Gabriel Bortoleto and Nico Hülkenberg.
- Jack Doohan (Alpine) and Isack Hadjar (Racing Bulls) also make their full-time debuts.
Can Verstappen Make It Five in a Row?
Defending champion Max Verstappen remains the man to beat as he aims for his fifth consecutive drivers’ title. Despite a strong preseason, Red Bull faced internal controversies, including the off-track allegations against team principal Christian Horner. However, Verstappen remains focused on delivering another dominant season.
Red Bull’s new lineup, featuring Liam Lawson alongside Verstappen, adds an interesting dynamic. Will the young New Zealander rise to the challenge, or will the competition from Ferrari and McLaren intensify?
McLaren’s Rising Ambitions
After an impressive 2024 season where they won the constructors’ championship, McLaren is poised for an even stronger 2025 campaign. With Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri leading the charge, the team has been among the fastest in preseason testing.
Even rival drivers have acknowledged their speed:
- George Russell (Mercedes): “McLaren looked by far the strongest in Bahrain testing.”
- Lando Norris: “We have no excuses this year; we have everything it takes to fight for the title.”
Technical Changes for 2025
While 2024 saw major regulatory shifts, the 2025 season introduces some key refinements:
- Fastest Lap Point Removed: Previously, a driver in the top 10 could earn an extra point for setting the fastest lap. This rule has been scrapped to simplify scoring.
- Increased Track Time for Rookies: Rookie drivers can now participate in four practice sessions per season, doubling the previous limit.
These changes aim to enhance competition and provide younger talents with valuable experience.
Full 2025 F1 Race Schedule
Here’s a complete list of the 24 races for the 2025 season:
- Australian Grand Prix – March 16
- Chinese Grand Prix – March 23
- Japanese Grand Prix – April 6
- Bahrain Grand Prix – April 13
- Saudi Arabian Grand Prix – April 20
- Miami Grand Prix – May 4
- Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix – May 18
- Monaco Grand Prix – May 25
- Spanish Grand Prix – June 1
- Canadian Grand Prix – June 15
- Austrian Grand Prix – June 29
- British Grand Prix – July 6
- Belgian Grand Prix – July 27
- Hungarian Grand Prix – August 3
- Dutch Grand Prix – August 31
- Italian Grand Prix – September 7
- Azerbaijan Grand Prix – September 21
- Singapore Grand Prix – October 5
- United States Grand Prix – October 19
- Mexico Grand Prix – October 26
- Brazil Grand Prix – November 9
- Las Vegas Grand Prix – November 22
- Qatar Grand Prix – November 30
- Abu Dhabi Grand Prix – December 7..