With the upcoming F1 season, many changes have been and are being made, pre-season testing approaches, and we are seeing new cars, new drivers, and new rules.
First and foremost, the F1 75 launch brought forth countless new car designs, including color swaps and revamped engine placements. Prior to the official launch event, McLaren was the first to debut their MCL39, which looks similar to past liveries with a few tweaks, like seat placement and a lowered wishbone.
The FIA has also implemented new rules, including the addition of a driver cooling system for driving in extreme heat, which will be required for each car, as well as a removal of the fastest lap point. Many rules have received positive feedback, however, there have been countless outcries over the swearing ban. In January, it was announced that curse words said by drivers would now result in a penalty, including being fined or suspended. Many fans and drivers themselves share their frustration with the ban, stating that it will be a recipe for disaster. Either way, it will be a challenge for many drivers to refrain from emotional reactions, as the drama of the sport affects everyone equally.
Many changes have also been made to the drivers and teams. In 2024, Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari announced that Hamilton would be replacing Carlos Sainz in the upcoming season. Although there have been many interviews and opinions on this change, Hamilton explained that he chose to leave Mercedes after driving for them for the majority of his career, mainly due to the fact that Hamilton found the environment less competitive and wanted to focus on pushing himself to success for his last few years as a driver.
Sainz, after sharing his experience with being swapped out for his spot in Ferrari, has also announced his joining the GPDA alongside driver George Russell. As a director, Sainz will represent drivers and guarantee that driver concerns are heard.
This year, we are also seeing more opportunities for rookie drivers as the participants will consist of 30% rookies during the testing season. Andrea Kimi Antonelli joins George Russell for Mercedes at only 18 years old. Antonelli, however, does have years of experience, like driving in F4 as well as F2. Other rookies, all with their own experiences in F2, F3, and F4, include Gabriel Bortoleto with Sauber and Isack Hadjar with Racing Bulls. Returning rookies, Red Bull’s Liam Lawson, HAAS’s Oliver Bearman, and Alpine’s Jack Doohan, also share their excitement for the upcoming season, determined to make their names known and keep their seats in Formula 1.
New rules, new drivers, and new cars bring fans all over the world together to witness a highly anticipated sport full of drama, friendships, and team accomplishments. As F1 fans tune in, drivers and teams are preparing for performance testing, both on and off the circuits.
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