Writers Inga Stracke and Gerhard Schiede on how the F1 is entering a thrilling new era with fresh talent, major team shifts, and endless excitement
Racing into a new era. From breathtaking entertainment to high-octane racing, Formula 1 enters its 75th season with fresh faces, bold moves and endless thrills
Time flies in Formula 1, and it feels like just yesterday that the world’s fastest drivers were tearing through Yas Marina Circuit for the season finale.
Abu Dhabi once again proved why it’s the perfect host, winning F1’s Best Event Spectacle Award – a recognition of the city’s unmatched entertainment, dazzling concerts, and show-stopping fireworks that closed out the season in style.
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As Formula 1 gears up for its 75th season, the excitement is reaching new heights.
With new faces, bold team moves and rule changes, the upcoming championship promises high-speed drama like never before.
Big shifts, big dreams
The new season brings a mix of seasoned champions and fresh talent ready to prove themselves on the grid.
After 12 years with Mercedes, Lewis Hamilton has made the shocking switch to Ferrari, aiming to add another world title in the iconic scarlet red.
Meanwhile, Adrian Newey, Red Bull’s legendary designer, is expected to push Aston Martin into serious contention.
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All eyes are also on Max Verstappen, now a four-time world champion, as he fights to defend his title against an ever-improving McLaren team led by Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.
But with 24 Grand Prix races on the calendar and rule tweaks affecting strategy – including the removal of points for the fastest lap – this season is anyone’s game.
Fresh faces on the grid
The biggest shake-up is happening inside the cockpits. This year, six rookies will take on their first full season — making up a quarter of the grid.
- Kimi Antonelli (18, Italy) steps into Hamilton’s former seat at Mercedes, carrying the hopes of an entire nation
- Oliver Bearman (19, UK) joins Haas alongside veteran Esteban Ocon
- Gabriel Bortoleto (20, Brazil) partners Nico Hülkenberg at Sauber, soon to be Audi
- Isack Hadjar (20, France) makes his debut for Racing Bulls
- Jack Doohan (22, Australia) is set for his first home Grand Prix with Alpine
- Liam Lawson (23, New Zealand), after filling in as a reserve driver, now joins Red Bull alongside Verstappen
With Fernando Alonso (43), Hamilton (40), and Hülkenberg (37) still leading the charge, the mix of young guns and seasoned veterans sets the stage for an electrifying battle.
Travel tip
Melbourne awaits! The 2025 season kicks off in Melbourne on 16 March, making it the perfect opportunity for an Australian getaway.
While in town, explore:
- Phillip Island – home to 40,000 little penguins and the legendary MotoGP track
- Great Ocean Road – admire the stunning rock formations of the Twelve Apostles
- Gold Coast & Great Barrier Reef – pristine beaches, rainforests, and breathtaking marine life.
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With the season finale set for 7 December in Abu Dhabi, the year is shaping up to be a thrilling ride from start to finish.
With so many changes, fresh talent, and high expectations, Formula 1’s 75th season promises to be one for the history books. Buckle up – it’s going to be a wild ride!
Fun fact
When Kimi Antonelli was born in 2006, Fernando Alonso had already been racing in F1 for five years and had won his first world championship.
Antonelli only just got his driver’s license this year!
Meanwhile, Oliver Bearman admits he failed his first driving test for ignoring a stop sign – his excuse? ” They don’t have those in Formula 1!
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