What to expect from the new 2025 Formula 1 season?. Here’s what to expect from the upcoming Formula 1 season..

The 2025 Formula 1 season is just around the corner. The Bahrain tests have provided the first glimpse of what lies ahead, with the season set to kick off in Melbourne for the Australian Grand Prix.

Bahrain confirmed that McLaren is in strong form and is arguably the championship favorite. The Woking-based team demonstrated an impressive race pace on a circuit that is not even its strongest, which could be a telling sign.

McLaren favored for the 2025 season, but what about Ferrari?
It remains to be seen whether Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri will live up to their car’s potential and if they can replicate last season’s success. Norris made several mistakes last year, which were understandable given that it was his first real title fight. This season could tell a different story.

Ferrari, on the other hand, despite the excitement surrounding Lewis Hamilton’s arrival, did not particularly shine during the Bahrain tests. One concerning factor is that the Sakhir track should theoretically suit the SF-25’s characteristics. Low temperatures may have played a role in holding Ferrari back, but regardless of external factors, the team has yet to appear at the level of the reigning world champions.

Who could be the outsiders?
Mercedes also looked stronger than last season, though still not at McLaren’s level. Kimi Antonelli showed great confidence in the W16, and he could be a surprise contender as the season progresses.

Max Verstappen remains the biggest certainty. Although little seems to remain of the dominant Red Bull from past Bahrain tests, the talent of the four-time world champion is unchanged. It is no longer the Red Bull that dominated 2023 and the start of 2024, but the team could still become a threat, as it has in recent years.

Behind the four top teams, Williams could emerge as the best of the rest, having set the fastest time in testing thanks to Carlos Sainz. The former Ferrari driver could be a key asset for the British team in fighting for the top midfield spot, with an eye on a brighter future when the regulations change.

However, everything seen in Bahrain will need confirmation once the cars hit the track in Melbourne. The first real test comes on the weekend of March 14-16 with the Australian GP, the opening race of the 2025 F1 season.