It’s officially race weekend (finally) and the 2025 season is here, we are back in Australia for Round 1.
The track surface has not changed since it was renewed in 2022 and is not too harsh on the tyres. The only modification to the track layout, which features some sections made up of roads usually open to normal traffic, comes at Turn 6 and 7 where the barriers and kerbs have been modified.
5.278 kilometres long, the circuit combines both fast straights with low to medium speed technical corners and some heavy braking points.
Summer is sliding into autumn at this time of year in Australia and the weather can be very changeable, with big swings in temperature from one day to the next and rain has been known to put in an appearance.
Having softened up its compound choices last year, Pirelli has confirmed the same compounds for the opening round, with the trio of C3 (Hard), C4 (Medium), C5 (Soft). However, compared to a year ago the tyres have evolved in terms of the characteristics of both construction and compound.
Last year, the most popular strategy was a two-step, with the Hard tyre doing most of the work, completing 80% of all the laps, with an average stint length of 22 laps. Only three drivers opted to start on the Soft, while two drivers lined up on Hard tyres, making Medium the most popular compound on the grid.
Alpine Academy driver, Kush Maini will expand his role with the team in 2025 by becoming Test and Reserve Driver, with the Indian racer set to take on the additional duties alongside competing in Formula 2 with DAMS.
Maini first joined the Alpine Academy in October 2023 before going on to race in the 2024 F2 season, during which he scored five podiums including a race win in Budapest.
As he enters into his third Formula 2 campaign, Maini will also take on the position of Test and Reserve Driver for the Alpine F1 Team.
As part of his role, the 24 year old will use the driver-in-loop simulator at the squad’s Enstone base to support their car development and set up objectives as well as participating in the TPC programme (Testing of Previous Cars) to continue to improve his skills.
Maini joins a pool of reserve drivers at Alpine that also includes Paul Aron, Ryo Hirakawa and former Williams super-sub Franco Colapinto.
I am delighted to step up to the role of Test and Reserve Driver for BWT Alpine Formula 1 Team this season. Since joining the Alpine Academy ahead of last year, I have been incredibly welcomed in the entire Alpine family and I am thankful to Flavio [Briatore] and Oliver [Oakes] for their continued support. I am looking forward to getting more track time in Formula 1 machinery in this role and to build on what I have already learned with the team in 2024. I’m very excited to begin the role as soon as possible but for now my focus is on my third season in Formula 2 kicking off this weekend in Australia. Maini on the news.
We are very happy to announce the expansion of Kush’s role in the Alpine Academy to include Test and Reserve Driver duties for the team this season. Kush has impressed the team across his TPC performances and Formula 2 results whilst we have been working with him and we expect he will continue to do so in 2025. His wider role allows us to further expand our pool of driving talent who can provide support and resources to the whole team during the busy season. Julian Rouse, Alpine Academy Director.
Racing Bulls have announced that their Technical Director, Jody Egginton, will be leaving the team after more than 10 years as part of the operation.
Egginton is taking on the new role of Engineering Director at Red Bull Advanced Technologies, with that new appointment due to come into force from April 1st this year.
Egginton’s F1 career began back in 1996 as a Junior Designer with the Tyrrell team followed by stints at Midland (which morphed into Spyker and Force India) and Team Lotus. He then moved to Toro Rosso in 2014 as Head of Vehicle Performance, becoming Deputy Technical Director in 2017 and then onto Technical Director in 2019.
Egginton’s role at Racing Bulls will now be covered between Chief Technical Officer Tim Goss and Deputy Technical Directors Guillaume Cattleani (Car Performance) and Andrea Landi (Car Design).
Being part of this team for over 10 years has been a fantastic experience for me, providing some very memorable moments. But after almost 20 years of focusing solely on Formula 1, I feel it’s time for a change. I will have a great remit as Engineering Director of Red Bull Advanced Technologies and the company currently has an exciting list of projects, so I can’t wait to get started on this new challenge. Egginton on the news.
As our long-serving Technical Director, he has been instrumental in driving innovation and fostering team growth. I want to thank Jody for his expertise and the important contribution he has made to the team and the company’s upward trajectory. We wish him all the best for this new challenge within the Red Bull family. Laurent Mekies, Racing Bulls Team Principal.
It has been confirmed that the Cadillac Formula 1 Team have received final approval to join the sport, with the team – who are backed by TWG Motorsports and General Motors (GM) – set to be part of the F1 grid in 2026.
The announcement comes after appointments were confirmed across recent months, including former Marussia Sporting Director Graeme Lowdon joining as Team principal and industry veteran Russ O’Blenes becoming CEO of TWG GM Performance Power Units, which will contribute towards Cadillac becoming a “full works” team by the end of the decade.
The Cadillac outfit – which has bases in Fishers, Indiana; Charlotte, North Carolina; Warren, Michigan; and Silverstone, England – have assembled a team of over 200 people working on aerodynamics, chassis and component development, software and vehicle dynamics simulation since the team’s bid to enter Formula 1 was announced, with development work continuing at pace ahead of joining the grid in 2026.
As we said in November, the commitment by General Motors to bring a Cadillac team to Formula 1 was an important and positive demonstration of the evolution of our sport. I want to thank GM and TWG Motorsports for their constructive engagement over many months and look forward to welcoming the team on the grid from 2026 for what will be another exciting year for Formula 1. Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1.
Today marks a transformative moment, and I am proud to lead the Federation in this progressive step for the championship. The FIA Formula One Championship’s expansion to an 11th team in 2026 is a milestone. GM/Cadillac brings fresh energy, aligning with the new FIA 2026 regulations and ushering in an exciting era for the sport.The Cadillac Formula 1 Team’s presence in the paddock will inspire future competitors and fans. Their entry strengthens our mission to push motorsport’s boundaries at the highest level. FIA President, Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
For the past year, we have worked hand in hand with GM, to lay a robust foundation for an extraordinary Formula 1 entry. Now, with 2026 in our sights after today’s final approval from the FIA and Formula One Management, we’re accelerating our efforts—expanding our facilities, refining cutting-edge technologies, and continuing to assemble top-tier talent. Dan Towriss, CEO of TWG Motorsport.
I couldn’t be prouder of the effort put in thus far by the entire Cadillac Formula 1 team. This announcement is the next step in getting on the grid and continued work toward building a full-works team. Through the long and thorough application process, we never lost pace in planning or belief in our mission. We can’t wait to go racing and give fans a new team to cheer for. Lowdon on the news.
Chloe Chong will be returning to F1 Academy this season, with the British driver teaming up with F1 Academy Official Partner, Charlotte Tilbury and filling the final full-time spot on this season’s grid.
The 17 year old previously raced in the series in 2023 as the youngest driver in the field. In her first season of single-seaters, Chong secured six points-scoring results, including three personal best finishes of sixth in Spielberg, Valencia and Austin.
Last year, Chong competed in British F4, achieving her highest result of seventh at Donington Park. She’ll now get her sophomore campaign underway behind the wheel of the 27 car operated by Rodin Motorsport.
I’m super happy to be making a return to F1 ACADEMY this season and to be representing Charlotte Tilbury. When I was first introduced to the brand, I instantly felt at home with their ethos of championing the magic of confidence and big dreams in order to achieve goals. I truly believe in setting myself up for success; so joining the Charlotte Tilbury family feels just like that. Their brand story is beyond inspiring, and it’s something I would like to replicate on track. I am grateful for their support in my career, and I can’t wait to shoot for the stars wearing their colours in the year ahead. Chong on the news.
On International Women’s Day, Formula E and the FIA have announced a second annual Women’s Test at Season 12 pre-season testing, with double the track time.
Following the success of the first ever all women test held at the Circuito Jarama, Madrid in 2024 and to celebrate this year’s IWD them to ‘Accelerate Action’ the event on the 30th October 2025 will see all 11 teams involved.
For a second year in a row, Formula E will offer a dedicated platform for up to 22 talented women to push the state-of-the-art Gen3 Evo race car to the limit.
The test will take place at the renowned Ricardo Tormo circuit in Valencia, Spain and is an integral part of the pre-season Official Collective tests schedule for the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship’s Season 12.
Each of the 11 teams are required to field at least one women driver, with a focus on ensuring that women have access to the same state-of-the-art equipment and technical insights as their male counterparts.
Building on the success of last year’s pioneering all-women’s test, we’re excited to make the event even bigger and more impactful by extending it to a full day of testing involving two lengthy test sessions. Our goal is to continue breaking down the barriers to entry for women in motorsport and provide them with an equal opportunity to showcase their skills, driving the same cutting-edge technology as the rest of our championship drivers. Alberto Longo, Co-Founder and Chief Championship Officer.
Developing the next generation of Formula E drivers is a cornerstone of our focus in the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, and as part of this strategy, we are also committed to foster diversity and inclusion. With this expanded initiative, we keep working with Formula E towards offering a level playing field for women and men’s drivers. Pablo Martino, Head of Formula E, FIA.
Amaury Cordeel will join Rodin Motorsport for the 2025 FIA Formula 2 campaign, replacing Christian Mansell who took to social media to say he is stepping away from racing for a little while due to personal reasons.
Cordeel returns for his fourth season in F2, and achieved his strongest campaign to date in 2024 with multiple points finishes and his highest points total.
Prior to stepping up to F2, Cordeel earned the 2018 Spanish F4 title. The 22 year old said that he was very happy to be back in F2.
I’m delighted to be back competing in the FIA Formula 2 World Championship with Rodin Motorsport. I’m very much looking forward to working with the team to maximise our potential and achieve some strong results together. Cordeel on the news.
We’re very pleased to welcome Amaury into the team for the 2025 season. We have a lot to learn about each other quickly, having missed pre-season testing, but we’re looking forward to taking advantage of his experience and knowledge of the current F2 car and all that he has learned from his time in the series so far. He is a great addition to the team, and we look forward to working with him this season. Benn Huntingford, Rodin Motorsport Sporting Director.
MP Motorsport have finalised their roster for the 2025 season with Joanne Ciconte racing for the team in her rookie F1 Academy campaign.
Ciconte started off in karting aged nine, competing across regional and national championships at home in Australia, with successes including the 2023 Australian Karting Championship Pink Plate win. From there, she was selected as one of the four senior category finalists for that year’s FIA Girls on Track – Rising Stars programme.
Transitioning to single seaters last year, Ciconte scored points in Australian F4 before continuing her development in Europe, participating in the Brno round of the Central European Zone F4 Championship.
A two round appearance in the highly competitive Spanish F4 Championship followed whilst her preparations for 2025 have been bolstered by showings in the Formula Winter Series last month.
I’m proud to be moving up into the F1 ACADEMY series with MP Motorsport. To be able to race in front of large crowds and the Formula 1 stars during Grand Prix weekends is a dream come true, and to be able to do that with such an experienced team like MP Motorsport is all I could ask for. I’m very much looking forward to get going with the first test to further hone the car and our cooperation and can’t wait to start my first race in Shanghai. Ciconte on the news.
Australian driver Aiva Anagnostiadis is set to join the F1 Academy grid as part of a new and innovative partnership with TAG Heuer, which will become an Official Partner and Timekeeper of the series in 2025.
The 17 year old will be behind the wheel of the TAG Heuer car operated by Hitech TGR.
Anagnostiadis has motorsport in her blood; her mother, Barbara, was a competitive go-karter, as well as her father who worked as a track mechanic. At six years old, she tried karting for the first time, igniting her passion for speed.
The Australian’s competitive spirit, especially in races against her brother James, drove her to focus on the sport after achieving podium finishes.
In 2022, she competed at the Motorsport Games in France and won the Australian Ladies Trophy in 2021. By 2024, she transitioned to car racing, testing regularly with Argenti Motorsport and finishing 10th in her debut season in the Indian F4 Championship.
I’m beyond excited for the 2025 season! This is an amazing opportunity, and working with a team like Hitech GP and a sponsor like TAG Heuer is a dream come true. I’m ready to chase my goals, and fight for every opportunity to win! Anagnostiadis on the news.
The FIA World Motor Sport Council have approved proposals for a mandatory two-stop strategy to be implemented at the Monaco Grand Prix.
It comes following a meeting between stakeholders, coinciding with the start of pre-season testing at the Bahrain International Circuit.
The change, which will apply to both wet and dry races, has been pushed through “with the primary intent of improving the sporting spectacle” of the event.
Drivers will now be required to use at least three sets of tyres in the race with a minimum of two different tyre compounds to be used if conditions are dry.
The 2024 Monaco Grand Prix saw the top 10 start and finish in the same positions, with a red flag on the opening lap taking out any strategic element.
Since 2010, F1 rules state that at least two dry tyre compounds must be used in a Grand Prix if the conditions are dry, therefore each driver must complete a pit stop, unless there is a red flag which allows you to change tyres.
F1 and the Monaco Grand Prix have agreed a new deal last year that will see the event remain on the calendar until at least 2031, so efforts to make the race better have taken place.
F1 Academy has announced an update to the Sporting Regulations for the 2025 season, which will see the return of reverse grid races.
The composition of the race weekend will remain the same as in 2024, with up to two Free Practices, one Qualifying session and two Races, with Race 1 becoming a reverse grid.
Under the updated regulations, Race 1 will become a reverse grid race. The grid for Race 1 will be set by reversing the top eight drivers from the Qualifying classification. All other drivers will start where they qualify. Points will be awarded to the top eight drivers and additionally, one point will be allocated to the driver who achieves the fastest lap time within the top eight classified drivers.
The format and points allocation for Race 2 will remain the same as during the 2024 season, with the grid set by the drivers’ fastest laps in Qualifying. Points for Race 2 will be awarded to the top ten classified drivers, in addition to one point for the driver who achieves the fastest lap within the top ten, and two points for the driver in pole position.
The return of the reverse grid in 2025 promises exciting racing with even more overtakes. The change will also challenge and develop our drivers’ race craft and prepare them to progress up the motorsport ladder, where reverse grids are a mainstay in the weekend format. Reverse grids are a fantastic chance for drivers who often qualify P5 – P8 to demonstrate their ability to race at the front, and a podium or race win can be just what it takes to unlock their full confidence and potential. Delphine Biscaye, Competition Manager F1 Academy.
Nicole Havrda will be racing in American Express colours in 2025, as the F1 Academy partner announced her as their chosen driver for the upcoming season.
The 19 year old began karting on home soil in 2019, achieving first place in the Calgary Shootout alongside success in the Rotax Max Finals.
Graduating to open-wheel racing in 2022, she achieved two top five finishes in the Indian Racing League Championship. The following year saw her make history, becoming the first female Formula Pro USA Champion as well as taking home the title in both SFR FA2 and the Formula Pro USA Winter Series.
In 2024, the Canadian competed in the Formula Regional Americas Championship, finishing sixth overall in her rookie campaign with four podiums to her name. In addition, she participated in two endurance races in an Audi R8 GT4.
I’m honoured to partner with American Express for my F1 ACADEMY debut this upcoming season, especially at the F1 Montreal Grand Prix in June. Their support fuels my drive to compete at the highest level and I’m thrilled to represent a brand that champions performance, resilience, and ambition, both on and off the track. Havrda on the news.
AIX Racing have announced the signing of Nicola Marinangeli for the upcoming Formula 3 season, their second confirmed driver for the 2025 season.
Marinangeli first started out in single seater racing in 2018 and achieved several podium and points finishes during his four full seasons, including a victory in the 2020 Formula 4 UAE Championship.
The Italian driver then made the move to sportscars in 2022 and has gone on to score nine podiums since then, three of those being victories.
Two of his wins came last season, the 21 year old being part of a team which finished third in the 2024 International GT Open.
For 2025, he is set to race for AIX in F3, and speaking following the announcement, Marinangeli revealed how motivated he is for the new challenge.
Such a great honour for me to join the FIA Formula 3 grid with AIX Racing this year. It will be an interesting challenge for me, considering the two years racing in GT3. Couldn’t be more motivated for this experience. Let’s see what this year brings to us. Marinangeli on the news.
Victor Martins will return to the FIA Formula 2 grid with ART Grand Prix for the 2025 campaign, filling the final spot on the F2 grid this year.
The French driver will be taking part in his third season in the Championship after securing one win, finishing as the top rookie in 2023 in fifth position, and helping the team claim the Teams’ Championship. His second season then resulted in another victory en route to seventh in the Standings.
He will now partner new teammate Ritomo Miyata. Speaking about his confirmation with ART, Martins said that he was happy to be back with the team he secured the 2020 Formula Renault Eurocup and 2022 FIA Formula 3 titles with.
I’m very excited to continue the adventure with ART Grand Prix in 2025. We share a common goal: doing everything we can to win the title. I’m surrounded by the best people to achieve my ultimate dream—Formula 1. This winter, we worked extensively on all the areas we needed to improve from 2024, and now we’re ready to turn those efforts into results on track. The season is starting, and it’s time to focus on testing in Barcelona. Martins on the news.
Continuing with Victor in 2025 was an obvious choice. We have a long history together, marked by successes and challenges overcome as a team. He has proven he has the speed and talent to compete at the front in Formula 2. This season needs to be the one where everything comes together, and we will do everything we can to help him achieve his goals. Sebastien Philippe, Team Principal.
Van Amersfoort Racing have confirmed that Rafael Villagomez will return with the team for the 2025 FIA Formula 2 campaign.
The Mexican driver finished his rookie season in the Championship last year with 24 points and a best finish of seventh in the Melbourne Feature Race.
It continues his affiliation with the team after spending three season racing with them in FIA F3, having also finished eighth in 2021 edition of the Euroformula Open in VAR colours.
Speaking about his confirmation for the 2025 season, Villagomez said he was excited to continue the work he and VAR have done in F2 so far.
I’m extremely excited to stay and carry on in Formula 2 with VAR. Important year for myself and the team. Towards the end of the year things started shape up better so I’m looking forward to carry on. A lot of work has been done over the winter so I’m looking forward to start testing and Barcelona. Villagomez on the news.
We’re excited to have Rafa stay with our FIA Formula 2 team for the upcoming season. He made significant progress last year, and we’re excited to continue working together to further his development. We’re confident he’ll build on his performances and achieve better results. Brad Joyce, Van Amerfoort Racing Team Principal.
Tina Hausmann will be returning for a sophomore F1 Academy campaign after Aston Martin confirmed the 18 year old is to continue representing the team in 2025.
Once again driving with PREMA Racing, Hausmann clinched a top 10 finish in the Drivers’ Standings last season. The Swiss racer ended 2024 on top form, scoring her best result of fourth in the final race of the year at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi.
Speaking about her re-signing with the team, Hausmann said she’s eager to carry on the development she’s made and progress further this year.
Continuing to support Hausmann across her second year, Jessica Hawkins will remain in her role as Aston Martin’s Head of F1 Academy.
Looking back on the incredible opportunity of competing in the 2024 F1 ACADEMY series for Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team with PREMA Racing, countless precious and unforgettable moments come to mind. Being behind the wheel and pushing the limits on seven iconic racetracks around the world felt like a dream came true. The learning curve was steep and culminated in a strong result in the final race. Aston Martin Aramco supported me throughout the journey like a true family. Being behind the wheel and pushing the limits on seven iconic racetracks around the world felt like a dream came true. The learning curve was steep and culminated in a strong result in the final race. Aston Martin Aramco supported me throughout the journey like a true family. Representing Aston Martin Aramco and PREMA in the series is a huge honour and I’m very proud of it. On this global platform you are in the spotlight as an athlete and as an individual, but I feel fully supported in all situations by both teams. Everyone involved does an incredible job and is driven to perform. Hausmann on the news.
I am really excited to continue working with Tina in 2025 as she embarks on her second year in F1 ACADEMY. Over the past season, she has grown tremendously, gaining valuable experience and developing both her skills and confidence on track. I have no doubt that she will take everything she has learned and channel it into a strong, competitive campaign this year. I look forward to seeing her achieve new milestones as she builds on the solid foundation she has already established. Hawkins on the news.
Rodin Motorsport have finalised their line-up for the upcoming Formula 2 season with Alexander Dunne set to race alongside Christian Mansell for them in 2025.
Dunne steps up to F2 after a rookie year in Formula 3 which he achieved two podiums, coming in the Barcelona and Monza Sprint Races, going on to finish 14th in the Drivers’ Championship.
Prior to that, the McLaren Development Driver Programme member won the 2022 British F4 title and also finished as runner-up in Italian F4 that year and in the 2023 GB3 Championship.
The Irishman will now be moving up to Formula 2 with Rodin Motorsport in 2025 having driven for the team on all three days of post-season testing in Abu Dhabi last year.
I’m pleased to be able to confirm my plans for the 2025 season, which will see me joining Rodin Motorsport and participating in Formula 2. I’m looking forward to the upcoming season and thankful for everyone’s support in getting me to this stage – I can’t wait to hit the ground running. Dunne on the news.
We are delighted to welcome Alex to Rodin Motorsport. Alex’s talent, dedication, and passion for racing align perfectly with our team’s values and ambitions. We are confident that he will make a significant impact in the upcoming season and know that he is capable of enjoying a really great season with the team. Benn Huntingford, Rodin Motorsport Sporting Director and Team Manager.
Ferrari have announced the return of Zhou Guanyu as a reserve driver for the 2025 season, adding to the team’s back-up pool alongside incumbent Antonio Giovinazzi.
It officially ends the speculation over the Chinese racer’s immediate future, following Kick Sauber’s decision to overhaul their driver line-up and part ways with both Zhou and teammate Valtteri Bottas.
Zhou spent four years as part of the Scuderia Ferrari Driver Academy from 2015 to 2018, rising through the Formula 4 and Formula 3 single-seater ranks with the Maranello-based operation.
He progressed to Formula 2 after leaving the academy, and having won multiple races, secured promotion to Formula 1 with Sauber’s team then backed by Alfa Romeo for the 2022 season.
He remained there through the 2024 campaign, when the team transitioned to their Kick Sauber guise, reaching 68 Grand Prix starts and topping up his points tally to 16 before leaving the grid.
Zhou will provide support to Ferrari’s full time drivers in his new role, with the famous marque this year fielding a revised lineup as seven time World Champion Lewis Hamilton joins Charles Leclerc.
Ferrari have announced that Maya Weug will once again represent the team, with the Dutch racer switching to compatriots MP Motorsport for the 2025 F1 Academy season.
Weug returns for her sophomore campaign in the series after achieving eight podiums last year, including her maiden single-seater victory in Race 3 at Yas Marina, on her way to finish third in the Drivers’ Standings.
The 20 year old joins the previously announced Alba Hurup Larsen at MP and the Scuderia Ferrari Driver Academy member expressed her delight at teaming up with the Dutch team.
I can’t wait to get started with MP Motorsport for my second season in F1 ACADEMY. We’ll be working hard all year and fighting for more wins. Super proud to be racing in Ferrari colours again for 2025! It’s actually the first time in my motorsport career that I will represent a Dutch team, so that alone is quite special. MP have done well in the first two F1 ACADEMY seasons, always running up front and taking their share of wins, and it’s definitely my goal to add to those wins and challenge for the title. I very much look forward to competing in this year’s 14 races supporting the Formula 1 Grand Prix weekends and showing the world what we’re made of. Maya Weug on the news.
Aurelia Nobels has become the 11th full-time driver to be confirmed for the 2025 season, with the Brazilian continuing with F1 Academy Official Partner PUMA.
Nobels joined F1 Academy after campaigns in Brazilian F4 in 2022, followed by the Italian F4 and Euro 4 Championships in 2023.
The Scuderia Ferrari Driver Academy prospect went on to achieve six points finishes last year which includes a best result of fifth in Zandvoort.
Finishing the season 12th overall, Nobels will be eyeing more success as she finalises ART Grand Prix’s roster for the upcoming season. The 18 year old will race alongside Williams’ Lia Block and newcomer Courtney Crone for Haas.
I’m thrilled to announce I will be continuing my journey in F1 ACADEMY with ART Grand Prix in 2025. Partnering with Puma is an incredible honour and I’m grateful for their belief in me. I’m ready to embrace the challenges, push boundaries and make 2025 unforgettable! Nobels on the news.
Mercedes have confirmed that their 2025 F1 car will be revealed to the world on February 24th, just a few days after the team unveil their livery during the inaugural season launch event at London’s 02.
The squad’s challenger for the campaign ahead – the Mercedes-AMG F1 W16 E Performance is set to break cover ahead of what will be a new era for the Silver Arrows driver-wise, with rookie Kimi Antonelli joining the incumbent George Russell following Lewis Hamilton’s departure to Ferrari.
Details have not yet been revealed about where the car launch will take place, but the event will come just under a week after Mercedes join the other nine teams on the grid for the F1 75 launch event in London.
The livery that will adorn the W16 will be unveiled during the special event, with Toto Wolff recently stating that the squad will continue to use black on their car, a colour scheme that Hamilton was instrumental in introducing back in 2020.
Mercedes are the latest team to announce a reveal date for their car: Williams on 14th, Haas 16th for a filming day at Silverstone, Ferrari on the 19th.
All 10 teams will head to the Bahrain International Circuit for pre-season testing for three days from February 26th – 28th ahead of the season opening Australian grand Prix.
Van Amersfoort Racing have confirmed that Santiago Ramos will race for the team in the 2025 Formula 3 season, completing their lineup for the upcoming season.
Ramos who will race alongside Theophile Nael and Ivan Domingues, returns for a second F3 season after finishing the 2024 campaign 16th in the Drivers’ Championship with 44 points.
The Mexican driver achieved one podium which came at the final round of the season in Monza where he finished second in the Sprint Race, as well as a pole position at Imola with Trident.
He is now set to race for Van Amersfoort Racing in 2025 and following the announcement the 20 year old is delighted to return for a second season.
I’m thrilled to announce that I’ll be joining Van Amersfoort Racing for the upcoming FIA Formula 3 season. After showing some strong pace last year, I’m confident that with VAR’s support and expertise, we’re set for an incredible season. I can’t wait to get back in the car and fight for great results together! Ramos on the news.
We are delighted to welcome Santiago to our FIA Formula 3 team for the upcoming season. We’ve followed his progress over the years and have been impressed by his skills and determination. Santiago showed great potential during his rookie F3 campaign, and we are confident that, with the right support and environment, he will be able to reach his full potential with us. We look forward to working with him and helping him continue advancing in his racing career. Van Amersfoort Racing Team Principal, Brad Joyce.
Former Kick Sauber Team Representative Alessandro Alunni Bravi will be joining McLaren Racing as their new Chief Business Affairs Officer.
In the newly created position, which he started on the 1st February, Alunni Bravi will provide executive leadership skills “across a range of McLaren Racing business matters, including legal, driver development, commercial, driver contract management and rights holders/governing body management”.
He will also take over the running of McLaren’s Driver Development programme, which transitions across from Stephanie Carlin, who is assuming additional responsibilities within the F1 outfit run by Team Principal, Andrea Stella.
Alunni Bravi, who will report directly to CEO Zak Brown and sit as part of the McLaren Racing Executive Team, brings more than two decades of motorsport and business leadership experience to the squad, most recently at Kick Sauber.
The Italian served as Managing Director of the Sauber Group and Team Representative for Kick Sauber, adding to previous leadership roles with racing teams and companies such as ART Grand Prix, Trident Racing and SPARK Racing Technology.
I’m delighted to have Alessandro joining us with his extensive expertise and motorsport background. Alongside managing our legal and driver development functions, he will also provide invaluable support on all professional driver business management matters, racing governance activities across our various rights holders and governing body relationships and broad business support to all our racing series as needed. Brown on the news.
McLaren is a team I have been a huge fan of my whole life, and it therefore sparks special emotions personally to have the opportunity to now work with such an amazing group of people. I’m so grateful to be joining such a great organisation with the values and culture that are so clear to see from the outside. I want to reward the trust and confidence that Zak and the Board have put in me by giving my full dedication and effort to help contribute to the continued success, as I believe teamwork is key to everything. I am so happy to be joining a team that I truly believe sets the benchmark in F1 both on and off the track, and I can’t wait to get started at the beginning of February. Alunni Bravi on the news.
Williams Racing have announced the signing of Oliver Turvey as their new Test and Development Driver, providing additional support to full-time racers Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz.
British racer Turvey, 37, brings some 15 years of experience across F1, Formula E and sportscar racing to Grove, where “he will play a pivotal part in advancing Williams’ development programmes and simulator operations”.
This will include helping to develop a state of the art driver in loop (DIL) Simulator, which is set to become operational later this year, as Williams continue their quest to climb the F1 pecking order.
Alongside a racing career that includes wins in a host of single-seater championships and victory at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans, Turvey has spent the last 15 years in a test and development role at McLaren.
It’s an honour to have the opportunity to join such an historic and successful team. I have long admired Williams and watching Damon Hill win the World Championship for them is a moment that inspired me as I began my own racing career in karting. The ambition and determination driving this project are incredibly inspiring, and I’m excited for the challenge ahead to help bring the team back to the top. It is a privilege to work alongside Alex and Carlos, who I consider two of the best drivers in F1. I look forward to using my experience as both a driver and engineer to work closely with the team at Grove to enhance the car’s performance in the simulator and support the race team. I would like to thank James, Sven [Smeets, Williams Sporting Director], and the Board for putting their trust in me. I will give everything I have to help the team achieve success. Turvey on the news.
We’re very happy to welcome Oliver to the team. He brings a vast amount of experience and expertise that will be invaluable to our progression as we continue to strengthen the team across the board. The role of a test and development driver is vital to our journey back towards success, and I am confident that Oliver, who will join Harrison Scott, will result in a strong team developing the current and future cars. Smeets added.
Haas have promoted Laura Mueller to the role of Race Engineer for new recruit Esteban con with Carine Cridelich set to join as Head of Strategy from rivals Racing Bulls as part of a wider strengthening of the structure.
Haas finished seventh in the constructors’ championship last year, their best finish since 2018, and are looking to build on that this year with a new line-up that features race winner Ocon and Ferrari junior Ollie Bearman.
Mueller headlines the raft of changes, earning promotion for her role as Performance Engineer to become the first full-time female to take on the high-profile position of Race Engineer.
A race engineer is one of the most senior trackside roles for a team as they are the main link between a driver and the team, both on-track through radio communications, and off it in the pursuit of performance.
She’s a pretty determined character. And then she’s very hardworking. Her work ethic is really, really good. She’s going to be Esteban’s Race Engineer. In terms of looking at it personality-wise, Esteban is a pretty determined character as well. So that side, I think the driving force, I think that personality matches pretty well. And then what she’s really good at is, when she sees a problem, she digs deep, and she doesn’t stop at the first answer. Some people, when they find the answer, first answer, they stop there. They think, ‘Oh, great, I found the solution, move on’. She has a good work ethic such that when she finds the first solution, she knows that there’s 10 things, now you’ve got new questions to answer. Her determination is the one that impresses me the most. Komatsu on the news.
Formula E’s most recent race winner continued his strong pace and topped the timesheets for FP1 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Nissan’s, Oliver Rowland was quickest in the Free Practice session in Jeddah, with his teammate Norman Nato taking second. It’s a promising start for the Nissan powertrains, especially with McLaren’s Sam Bird finishing the season in fourth.
There was early drama between Pascal Wehrlein and Oliver Rowland as the two came close to contact as they scoped out the circuit.
Jake Hughes set a great lap halfway into the session, going over a second and a half quicker than Rowland who was in P1 before the Maserati MSG Racing driver knocked him off the top spot.
Zane Maloney and Lucas di Grassi received a drop of 20 grid positions for breaking the seal on their respective MGUS after Lola Yamaha ABT sought permission to perform checks and resolve a technical issue post round 2.
FP2-
TAG Heuer Porsche’s Antonio Felix da Costa was quickest in the Free Practice 2 in Jeddah, as the grid prepared for the first qualifying session at the new Saudi Arabian circuit. Maximilian Guenther finished second for DS PENSKE and Maserati MSG Racing’s Jake Hughes third.
Just under 10 minutes in, and it was Lola Yamaha ABT’s Lucas di Grassi who was top of the timesheets with a 1m17.150s. However, the session was brought to a brief halt after Robin Frijns was forced to come to a stop at Turn 13. The Dutchman mentioned troubles with rear brakes on team radio with yellow flags deployed for his Envision, which became a red flag.
Once the session got going again, it was Maximilian Guenther and his DS PENSKE who was quickest, taking a second a half out of di Grassi’s previous lap.
With 10 minutes to go, da Costa had set the benchmark with a 1m15.470s. His time wasn’t beaten after another red flag was deployed in the final minutes of the session due to a clash with Mahindra’s Nyck de Vries and Maserati’s Stoffel Vandoorne coming together. The former teammates had a misunderstanding on track, with de Vries on a faster lap clipping Vandoorne’s car and ending up in the barrier.
Qualifying-
Maximilian Guenther achieved his first Julius Baer Pole Position since singing for his new team DS PENSKE, as he lined up alongside TAG Heuer Porsche’s Pascal Wehrlein.
Taylor Barnard had a fantastic session for NEOM McLaren as he started on the second row of the grid next to Nissan’s Oliver Rowland.
The full top 10 are- Pole: Guenther, P2: Wehrlein, P3: Rowland, P4: Barnard, P5: Evans, P6: De Vries, P7: Hughes, P8: Ticktum, P9: Cassidy and P10: Vergne.
Mahindra Racing’s Edoardo Mortara failed to set a time after a technical failure, so he had a lot of work to do in the race, apart from that there wasn’t too much drama in the qualifying session.
Round 3-
Polesitter Guenther led the field away through the tight left right of Turns 1 & 2 while Rowland edged by Wehlrein at Turn 4 with the Porsche slipping wide of the apex.
Things would go from bad to worse soon afterwards for the reigning champion as the front wing of Mitch Evans’ Jaguar came into contact with Wehrlein’s rear tyre.
With the debut of PIT BOOST and the 10% additional energy that brings, the field spaced out – Guenther racing to a two second lead come Lap 4 over Rowland.
Guenther started to save energy as he brought the four behind him into play, all running in a pack with a gap back to Vergne in 6th. However, on Lap 8, the safety car bunched everyone back up together again.
The German led the field away again on Lap 9 as things were. De Vries made moves for third at Turn 14 on Taylor Barnard on Lap 10. A lap later and Guenther ceded the race lead on track to Rowland at the same corner – the DS PENSKE driver looking to save up some energy having led from the front.
Lap 14 brought about the first ever PIT BOOST stops. Hughes, Barnard and da Costa were the first to make the leap – looking to undercut with some flat out laps under ATTACK MODE following their 10% energy boosts.
Rowland headed the way by some four seconds in had with less than 10 laps to go, from de Vries, Guenther, Hughes, Barnard, Mortara, Vergne, da Costa, Dennis and Buemi.
De Vries drew that gap to Rowland down to two seconds by Lap 26, though as the leaders set about their second and final 50kW ATTACK MODE boosts and it was Guenther that leapt into second to spearhead the charge after the lead Nissan.
From there, it was four lap duel to the chequered flag for the win but Barnard joined the fun on the final tour having dispatched de Vries a lap earlier.
Guenther jumped Rowland on the way into the final chicane, energy in had with Rowland having to back off. The lead four fired to the line which was led by the German for his first win since Tokyo last season.
The full top 10 are- P1: Guenther, P2: Rowland, P3: Barnard, P4: De Vries, P5: Hughes, P6: Vergne, P7: Mortara, P8: Bird, P9: Da Costa and P10: Vandoorne.
AIX Racing has confirmed Cian Shields for the 2025 FIA Formula 2 season.
Shields raced for AIX Racing in the two final rounds of the 2024 season, as he got his preparations for his step up to F2 early. He will continue with the team alongside Joshua Duerksen, who was confirmed in mid-December.
Last season, Shields completed his rookie campaign in FIA Formula 3, securing a best finish of 14th. Overall he finished 30th out of 30 drivers.
Back in 2023, he took part in the Euroformula Open Championship, where he finished as runner-up where he grabbed four wins and 10 podiums from 23 races.
I’m super excited to be competing in FIA Formula 2 with AIX Racing for 2025! I can’t wait to get started and push myself to new limits this season and super excited to get to work, we worked very well together at the end of last year. A huge thank you to the team for believing in me and giving me this incredible opportunity to race under their colours. Cian Shields on the news.
Ivan Domingues will step up to FIA Formula 3 with Van Amersfoort Racing. The team confirmed their second driver for the upcoming campaign, with the Portuguese driver joining the Dutch team after a year in the Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine.
Domingues made the move to single seaters in 2022, racing in the Italian and UAE Formula 4 Championships, finishing 15th and 16th respectively.
He did improve to 11th the following year in Italian F4 and matched that overall finishing position in the Euro 4 Championship which was a dual campaign that year, racing with Van Amersfoort in both.
Domingues then made the step up to FRECA last season, remaining with the team and achieved two podiums en route to finishing 10th in the Drivers’ Standings.
I feel very positive and confident about racing with VAR for the 2025 season in the FIA F3 Championship. It will be my third year with the team and I can’t wait for the start of this new challenge! Domingues on the news.
We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Ivan to our F3 Team for the upcoming season. Ivan has been a part of our family participating in our F4 and FRECA Team already. He has shown great results and determination. We’re confident he‘ll be a fantastic addition to our lineup and we’re excited to work together to achieve more good results on track again and be part of his development. VAR Team Principal, Brad Joyce.
DS PESNKE has singed Daniil Kvyat for the Jeddah Rookie Free Practice Session.
The former Formula 1 driver has taken part in a rookie session before, with NIO 333 at the Berlin rookie test. The Russian is now set to take the wheel of the DS E-TENSE FE25 during the FPO session at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit.
Kvyat, 30, is an accomplished driver with extensive experience in top-tier motorsport. Having competed in multiple Formula 1 seasons with teams such as Red Bull Racing and Scuderia Toro Rosso.
I am very excited to join the team for the Rookie Free Practice. It is my first time driving a Formula E new-generation GEN3 Evo car, and I am eager to get a feel for it on track. I already know some of the faces in the team, which makes this experience even more exciting! I cannot wait to get started and see where this test will take us. Kvyat on the news.
We’re delighted to have Daniil join us for FP0 in Jeddah. His background in Formula 1 and his proven ability to perform at the highest level will provide invaluable insights for our team. We are looking forward to seeing how Daniil adapts to the demands of the track and contributes to our overall weekend preparations. Deputy Team Principal, Phil Charles.
NEOM McLaren have confirmed Alex Dunne for the Jeddah Rookie Free Practice session, ahead of the 2025 Jeddah E-Prix.
Dunne, from Ireland, made his single-seater racing debut in 2021, competing in the Spanish F4 Championship and finishing third in his first race. After moving to Formula 4, Alex continued to deliver impressive results, becoming the 2022 British F4 Champion as well as the Italian F4 vice-champion.
Dunne’s 2023 campaign saw his finish second in the GB3 Championship with five victories and eight podiums across the season. In the same year he also made his Macau Grand Prix debut, finishing second in the qualifying race.
Since then, as well as joining the McLaren Driver Development programme, he raced with MP Motorsport in the 2024 FIA Formula 3 Championship, scoring two podiums and a further seven top 10 finishes. Dunne’s 2025 race programme, which he will contest alongside his Formula E duties, he is taking a step up to FIA Formula 2 for 2025 with Rodin Motorsport.
I’m looking forward to getting my first chance to drive the GEN3 Evo for the NEOM McLaren Formula E Team next week in Jeddah. To have this opportunity through the McLaren Driver Development programme feels incredible, and I’m so grateful to the team for putting their trust in me. I’ve been working hard in the simulator and with the team to prepare for this test, and I can’t wait to get out to Jeddah. Dunne on the news.
I’m very pleased that Alex will have the chance to test with the team at next week’s Rookie Free Practice Session. As our Reserve and Development Driver, Alex has already been playing a key role within the team and has been supporting us through his work in the simulator. Throughout his junior career, Alex has shown great promise, and I know he’ll make the most of this opportunity. Ian James, Team Principal.
Jordan's Track Talk 