Formula 1, the World Championship is ready: McLaren the favorite

Formula 1 is set to fire up its engines for the 2025 World Championship, with the first race of the season taking place in Melbourne. Australia returns as the season opener after six years, but there is no shortage of unknowns. Pre-season testing in Bahrain has raised more questions than answers, due to unusual weather conditions—cold, wind, and rain—which made it difficult to assess the real strength of the teams.

One thing, however, seems clear: McLaren, the reigning champion, has displayed impressive stability and performance, making it the team to beat this season. Ferrari, Red Bull, and Mercedes are in pursuit, with the Scuderia potentially holding a slight advantage among the challengers. However, Melbourne’s extreme heat (with track temperatures expected to exceed 40°C) could shake up the balance compared to the data collected in Bahrain’s desert.

Last year, Ferrari shone at Albert Park, securing a one-two finish, with Carlos Sainz taking victory and Charles Leclerc finishing second, also setting the fastest lap. However, Max Verstappen’s retirement due to brake issues proved decisive. The three-time world champion started the 2024 season in dominant form, only to see Red Bull’s performance decline, ultimately finishing third in the Constructors' Championship. During pre-season testing, the Austrian team worked tirelessly to regain lost ground, but its real form remains uncertain.

The paddock is also buzzing with talk of potential regulatory violations. Red Bull has raised concerns about McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes using flexible wings, which have been banned since 2024. In response, the FIA has announced stricter inspections starting in Melbourne, including more rigorous deformation tests and the introduction of cameras and adhesive markers to monitor any irregular movement. From the Spanish Grand Prix, front wings will also be subjected to tighter scrutiny.

At Ferrari, the SF-25 has shown good potential, but still needs adjustments, especially in terms of balance. Leclerc is working to fine-tune the setup, while Hamilton, in his debut season with Ferrari, is still in the learning phase.

Mercedes also showed encouraging signs during testing, but it remains to be seen how the car will perform under Melbourne’s high temperatures. Russell is ready to lead the team, while young Kimi Antonelli does not seem inclined to wait long before making his mark.