Formula 1 2025 Season Kicks Off: Latest News from the Australian Grand Prix

On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, discover the latest F1 news as the Australian Grand Prix launches Formula 1 2025.

Formula 1 2025

The 2025 Formula 1 season is officially underway, with the paddock buzzing in Melbourne as the Australian Grand Prix marks the first race of a highly anticipated 24-race calendar. Today, on Friday, March 14, the teams hit the track for practice sessions, setting the stage for what could be one of the most competitive seasons in recent memory. From Lewis Hamilton’s Ferrari debut to McLaren’s early pace, here’s the latest news from the world of F1.

Hamilton’s Ferrari Era Begins

All eyes were on Lewis Hamilton as the seven-time world champion made his debut in Ferrari red during Free Practice 1 (FP1) at Albert Park. After a blockbuster move from Mercedes over the winter, Hamilton’s arrival at Ferrari has been the talk of the offseason. In the FIA Thursday press conference, Hamilton reflected on his journey, saying, “I’m very, very fortunate. I’ve had this amazing career here in Formula 1,” while expressing excitement about the new chapter ahead. His teammate Charles Leclerc topped FP2 with a time of 1:18.439, hinting at Ferrari’s strong start, though Hamilton’s session was more about settling in than chasing times.

McLaren Sets the Pace

McLaren, fresh off their 2024 Constructors’ Championship win, emerged as early favorites. Lando Norris topped FP1, edging out Ferrari and Red Bull, while teammate Oscar Piastri slotted into second in FP2 behind Leclerc. The MCL39, powered by Mercedes engines, looked dominant in preseason testing, and that form carried over to Melbourne. Norris played down the “favorites” tag in post-session comments, but McLaren’s consistency has rivals on notice. Team CEO Zak Brown boldly claimed he has “the best driver line-up on the grid,” a statement that’s hard to argue with given their early 2025 showing.

Red Bull and Verstappen Face Challenges

Defending champion Max Verstappen, chasing a fifth consecutive Drivers’ title, admitted Red Bull isn’t the fastest out of the gate. Red Bull finished third in the 2024 constructors’ standings behind McLaren and Ferrari, and testing suggested they’re still playing catch-up. Adding intrigue, Verstappen has been tight-lipped with the media, while tensions with new teammate Liam Lawson bubbled up over a pre-season dispute. Could this be a rare off-year for the Dutchman?

Rookie Watch: Bearman’s Crash and Hadjar’s Promise

The 2025 grid features six rookies, the most since 2010, and they’re already making headlines. Ferrari junior Oliver Bearman, stepping into Haas, crashed out in FP1, bringing an early end to his session and raising questions about his readiness. Meanwhile, Red Bull’s Isack Hadjar has caught attention with a strong debut outing, with some on X noting his potential as a dark horse. Mercedes’ Kimi Antonelli, replacing Hamilton, also drew praise for his poise, sharing a heartwarming moment with his predecessor in the paddock.

Rule Changes and Team Updates

The 2025 season brings subtle but significant rule tweaks. Front wing deflection limits have tightened, and a new 5kg weight allowance for driver cooling systems could shake up car designs. Testing limits are now capped at 20 days and 1,000km, with the end-of-season test splitting focus between young drivers and 2026 Pirelli tire development. Off the track, Adrian Newey’s move to Aston Martin (effective March 3) won’t impact their 2025 car yet, but it’s a coup for 2026. Meanwhile, Stefano Domenicali’s tenure as F1 President and CEO was extended through 2029, earning praise from drivers like Verstappen and Piastri.

What’s Next?

Qualifying kicks off tomorrow, Saturday, March 15, with the race set for Sunday at 4:00 AM GMT (broadcast live on Sky Sports F1). A severe weather warning looms over Melbourne, potentially adding drama to an already unpredictable weekend. Will McLaren maintain their edge? Can Ferrari capitalize on Hamilton’s arrival? And how will Verstappen respond if Red Bull’s pace lags? One thing’s clear: the 2025 season is off to a thrilling start.