The 2025 Formula 1 season is on the horizon, marking the end of the long offseason. As anticipation grows, the Australian Grand Prix’s Free Practice 1 is set to kick off at 9:30 p.m. ET on Thursday, giving fans their first look at the performance of all ten teams. Although last month’s preseason test in Bahrain offered some insights, the true competitive landscape won’t unveil until the engines roar at Albert Park.
With each team preparing for the challenge, experts delve into the various storylines that will shape this season. Below, we highlight reasons to support each driver, alongside critical questions facing their respective teams.
McLaren
Currently, McLaren is viewed as the team to beat, boasting a robust lineup with Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. Norris has emerged as an early favorite for the title, while Piastri seeks to assert his place in the race.
Lando Norris
- Age: 25
- Nationality: Great Britain
- Grand Prix Starts: 128
- Grand Prix Wins: 4
- 2024 Championship Position: 2nd
For Norris, this season marks a significant milestone as he steps into the role of title favorite. Following a successful 2024, he aims to silence skeptics and prove his capabilities.
Oscar Piastri
- Age: 23
- Nationality: Australia
- Grand Prix Starts: 46
- Grand Prix Wins: 2
- 2024 Championship Position: 4th
Piastri’s determination not to be sidelined makes him a thrilling contender. His potential shines through, particularly after securing a victory in Baku last year.
Ferrari
The significant move of Lewis Hamilton to Ferrari has stirred excitement, promising to elevate the team’s dynamics this season. With expectations soaring, Hamilton’s ability to adapt in conjunction with teammate Charles Leclerc will be crucial.
Charles Leclerc
- Age: 27
- Nationality: Monaco
- Grand Prix Starts: 149
- Grand Prix Wins: 8
- 2024 Championship Position: 3rd
Leclerc faces the dual challenge of affirming his status and navigating the high-stakes environment alongside Hamilton, who now presents the ultimate benchmark.
Lewis Hamilton
- Age: 40
- Nationality: Great Britain
- Grand Prix Starts: 356
- Grand Prix Wins: 105
- 2024 Championship Position: 7th
Undoubtedly ambitious, Hamilton seeks to clinch his eighth title and reinvigorate Ferrari’s legacy—a narrative rich in potential and drama.
Red Bull
After a stellar 2024 season, Red Bull has encountered challenges. Max Verstappen remains a formidable driver, but the team faces unanswered questions as it attempts to regain its dominant form.
Max Verstappen
- Age: 27
- Nationality: Netherlands
- Grand Prix Starts: 209
- Grand Prix Wins: 63
- 2024 Championship Position: 1st
Verstappen’s resilience, showcased through his victories, keeps him as a central figure, even amid uncertainties with the car’s performance.
Liam Lawson
- Age: 23
- Nationality: New Zealand
- Grand Prix Starts: 11
- Grand Prix Wins: 0
- 2024 Championship Position: 21st
Lawson’s rapid promotion creates a narrative of struggle and achievement alongside the dominant Verstappen.
Mercedes
The current shift within Mercedes poses unique challenges, especially in the absence of Hamilton. Yet, the potential for a strong season exists with George Russell at the helm.
George Russell
- Age: 27
- Nationality: Great Britain
- Grand Prix Starts: 128
- Grand Prix Wins: 3
- 2024 Championship Position: 6th
Russell possesses the opportunity to establish himself as a competitor while elevating Mercedes’ position on the grid.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli
- Age: 18
- Nationality: Italy
- Grand Prix Starts: 0
- Grand Prix Wins: 0
- 2024 Championship Position: N/A
Antonelli represents the new generation at Mercedes. His performance will determine the future trajectory of the team as it navigates significant adjustments.
Conclusion
As the engines roar back to life, the dynamics within each team will vividly unfold over the course of the season. The 2025 F1 series promises thrilling races, fierce rivalries, and captivating narratives that will unfold as drivers vie for their chance in the spotlight. Fans eagerly await the show—with opportunities for both triumph and heartbreak across the grid.
