From the long-awaited Ferrari debut of world champion Lewis Hamilton to historic farewells, major team reshuffles and the rise of a new world champion, these were the main stories that defined the 2025 Formula 1 season.
The seventy-fifth season of Formula 1 delivered an extraordinary number of developments and talking points. From Lewis Hamilton’s first appearance in Ferrari red at Fiorano, to new technical directives and major leadership changes within top teams, all the way to the crowning of a new world champion, the 2025 campaign was packed with significant moments. Let’s relive the season by revisiting the most important news stories that shaped Formula 1 throughout 2025.
The 2025 season begins with a bang: the London launch show
For the first time in Formula 1 history, the liveries of all ten teams competing in the world championship were unveiled together during a single, large-scale event at London’s O2 Arena, organised to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the sport. Despite the impressive show, complete with lights, music and high-profile appearances, Liberty Media faced widespread criticism from fans and insiders who questioned the format and priorities of the spectacle.
2026 on the horizon: the grid expands to 11 teams
Among the most important announcements for the upcoming season, alongside the debut of the new technical regulations, was the confirmation that the Formula 1 grid will expand to 11 teams. The FIA officially approved the entry of Cadillac, the American outfit backed by automotive giant General Motors, marking a significant step in Formula 1’s global expansion and long-term strategy.
Ferrari finds its champion: triumph in China
In a remarkable turn of events, at just the second round of the season Lewis Hamilton secured pole position and victory in the Sprint race in China. No one was able to match his pace, as car number 44 set an astonishing rhythm over the 19-lap contest, finishing comfortably ahead of his Ferrari team-mate and sending a clear message to the rest of the grid.
The FIA aims to shake things up: new technical directive introduced
Starting from the Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona, the FIA introduced technical directive TD018, effectively banning any form of front wing flexing. The governing body aimed to reshuffle the competitive order at a point in the season where McLaren’s technical advantage over its rivals appeared almost impossible to close.
Red Bull shock: Horner dismissed
Following a series of scandals and disappointing on-track results, Red Bull made the sensational decision to dismiss long-time team principal Christian Horner, the man who had led the team to multiple Formula 1 titles. He was replaced by Laurent Mekies, who arrived from Racing Bulls in one of the most dramatic management changes in recent F1 history.
Aston Martin appoints Adrian Newey as team principal
Adrian Newey, widely regarded as one of the greatest engineers in Formula 1 history, was appointed team principal of Aston Martin starting from the 2026 season. After joining the team as technical director, the British designer stepped into a role he had never previously held, marking a historic moment in his legendary career.
Formula 1 crowns a new champion: Norris wins the world title
After an intense championship battle that went all the way to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Lando Norris secured third place in the final race, which was enough to clinch his first Formula 1 world championship. The British driver entered the sport’s hall of fame by taking the crown from Max Verstappen and opening a new chapter in Formula 1 history.
A season filled with late twists and shifting momentum kept interest high for those who chose to bet on Formula 1 throughout the year.
New drivers set to join the grid in 2026
Red Bull announced its two new driver line-ups for the 2026 season following the dismissal of Yuki Tsunoda. Isack Hadjar was promoted to the senior team, while young talent Arvid Lindblad earned his place on the Formula 1 grid after progressing from Formula 2.
2026 power units: the Mercedes engine controversy erupts
Controversy surrounded the Mercedes power unit developed for the 2026 regulations, as rumours spread about a potential loophole in the rulebook. By exploiting a grey area in the regulations, the Brackley-based team was believed to have gained an advantage of around 20 horsepower, equivalent to roughly three tenths of a second per lap over its competitors, triggering intense debate within the paddock.
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