F1 2025: A Season of Change and Excitement

The 2025 Formula 1 season promises to be one of the most thrilling yet, with a mix of seasoned champions and fresh talent. Lewis Hamilton's move to Ferrari headlines the major changes, as the seven-time world champion aims to rejuvenate his career with the iconic Italian team.

New Faces on the Grid

The 2025 grid sees six rookies making their full-time debut, including Oliver Bearman, who impressed during his stand-in appearances last season. Joining Haas on a multi-year contract, Bearman is one of the most anticipated young drivers. Other notable rookies include Gabriel Bortoleto, the 2024 Formula 2 champion, and Andrea Kimi Antonelli, who steps into the Mercedes seat vacated by Hamilton.

Experienced Drivers in New Roles

Liam Lawson, who made 11 F1 appearances in 2023 and 2024, will partner with world champion Max Verstappen at Red Bull. This pairing could shake up the dynamics within the team, as Lawson aims to prove his mettle against one of the sport's best.

Expanded Calendar and Sprint Races

The 2025 season features 24 races across 21 countries, with Australia returning as the season opener. The calendar includes six sprint races in China, Miami, Belgium, Austin, Brazil, and Qatar. The sprint race format remains unchanged, with qualifying on Friday and the race on Saturday.

Rule Changes and Rookie Opportunities

Significant rule changes for 2025 include the removal of the fastest lap point and an increase in rookie practice sessions. Each team will now have four opportunities to run rookie drivers during practice sessions, providing valuable track time for newcomers.

How to Follow the Season

BBC Sport will offer live text commentary for every race, with live coverage on BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC 5 Sports Extra. Stay tuned for all the action, insights, and behind-the-scenes coverage throughout the season.

Full F1 2025 Calendar

• 14-16 March: Australia
• 21-23 March: China
• 4-6 April: Japan
• 11-13 April: Bahrain
• 18-20 April: Saudi Arabia
• 2-4 May: Miami
• 16-18 May: Emilia Romagna
• 23-25 May: Monaco
• 30 May-1 June: Spain
• 13-15 June: Canada
• 27-29 June: Austria
• 4-6 July: United Kingdom
• 25-27 July: Belgium
• 1-3 August: Hungary
• 29-31 August: Netherlands
• 5-7 September: Italy
• 19-21 September: Azerbaijan
• 3-5 October: Singapore
• 17-19 October: United States (Austin)
• 24-26 October: Mexico
• 7-9 November: Sao Paulo
• 20-22 November: Las Vegas
• 28-30 November: Qatar
• 5-7 December: Abu Dhabi

Full 2025 F1 Line-Up

• Alpine: Pierre Gasly and Jack Doohan
• Aston Martin: Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll
• Ferrari: Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton
• Haas: Oliver Bearman and Esteban Ocon
• McLaren: Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris
• Mercedes: George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli
• Red Bull: Max Verstappen and Liam Lawson
• Racing Bulls (formally RB): Yuki Tsunoda and Isack Hadjar
• Sauber: Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto
• Williams: Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz