Media Day Highlights at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve: Insights from the 2025 Season

The media day in Montreal was undoubtedly one of the most eventful days of the 2025 racing season so far. Even without any on-track activities, the Thursday events at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve produced significant headlines and plenty of work for the journalists covering the event.

Max Verstappen’s Press Conference

The day kicked off with a highly anticipated press conference featuring Max Verstappen. Unlike typical race weekend interviews, which often focus on race expectations, the questions directed at Verstappen revolved around a potential penalty related to the points accumulated on his driver’s license. "I’m not going to change my driving style," Verstappen stated, appearing visibly uncomfortable with the barrage of inquiries on the subject.

The mood lightened considerably when a journalist inquired if Verstappen was aware that it was Valentine’s Day in Brazil and how he planned to make it special for his girlfriend, Kelly Piquet. "Yes, I knew; Facetime saved the day," he quipped, leading to laughter among the reporters. "I didn’t know Brazil had two Valentine’s Days," he joked, showcasing his lighter side amidst the serious discussion.

Gabriel Bortoleto’s Romantic Gesture

Meanwhile, the only Brazilian driver on the grid, Gabriel Bortoleto, didn’t have the same excuse for missing the occasion. He expressed his romantic side, revealing that he sent flowers to his girlfriend, Isabela Bernardini, the day before. "I knew I’d be focused here today, so I didn’t have much time to prepare anything," he explained. "I’m a romantic man, and she’s coming here to Canada. She’s been extremely important in my career, someone I met when I was 12 years old. We started dating at 15, and it has been an incredible journey since then. Our relationship is healthy, and she has supported me through both my lows and highs. I truly believe she has seen me through every moment and has always been by my side, grounding me in many situations," Bortoleto shared with a reporter in Montreal.

Praise from Isack Hadjar

Bortoleto may not have received flowers, but he received accolades from Isack Hadjar, who has been recognized as the standout rookie of the season thus far. During the FIA press conference, the other attendees, including Kimi Antonelli, unanimously acknowledged Hadjar’s impressive performance. When asked about Bortoleto’s season, Hadjar expressed high regard for his fellow driver.

"It’s challenging to assess a driver’s season, especially in the midfield where the car may not be the best," Hadjar said. "What I do know is that he has Nico as a teammate and has managed to qualify ahead of him on several occasions. That’s a significant achievement, considering Nico’s performance last year with Haas, where he consistently made it to Q3. It’s clear that Bortoleto has been able to beat him. I think their performance levels are relatively balanced, and that’s impressive."

Ferrari Drivers Show Solidarity

The Ferrari duo also took the opportunity to express their loyalty to the team during the media day. Lewis Hamilton, speaking at the official FIA press conference, and Charles Leclerc, during his interview in Ferrari’s hospitality area, both made declarations of their commitment to the Maranello team. However, the Italian media recently circulated numerous articles speculating about Leclerc’s potential exit from the team, as well as rumors regarding team principal Fred Vasseur’s future.

"I don’t see that happening; Fred is one of the main reasons I joined the team," Hamilton stated firmly. Leclerc echoed Hamilton’s sentiments. "I understand that rumors exist, but they don’t make any sense. I have never said anything to imply that," he added, reinforcing his dedication to Ferrari.

Competition Among Teams

As the teams prepared for the race, Ferrari and Mercedes were optimistic about their chances of securing podium finishes in Montreal, although they acknowledged that their likelihood of victory seemed slim. There was a consensus among the drivers that McLaren was the team to beat this weekend. Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, while avoiding any direct talk of favoritism, acknowledged that the championship landscape was increasingly favorable for them.

"I don’t think Max will change his style because he’s ‘hanging’ by points on his license," said Piastri, the championship leader. "But obviously, having more of an advantage in the points table is important."

When asked about the possibility of a more intense rivalry with his teammate, Norris took a moment to consider his response. "Honestly, I don’t know what to expect," he began. "Things will certainly change if it’s just Oscar and me competing for the title, but for now, we are working together for McLaren, and that has been the case in recent races."

The Dynamics of Team Rivalry

While both drivers presented a united front, their body language suggested that they were acutely aware of the burgeoning competition between them. As each Grand Prix passes, the reality of a fierce contest for the world championship, a first for both drivers, looms ever closer. It will require an exceptional blend of mental fortitude and sheer speed for either Norris or Piastri to emerge victorious.

Reflecting on McLaren’s storied history, one can’t help but recall the 1988 season when Ayrton Senna triumphed over Alain Prost in an intense on-track duel. During that season, Senna executed a stunning overtaking maneuver at the hairpin, securing a victory that propelled him toward his first world title.

Could Montreal witness the first major showdown between the top contenders for the championship this season? Based on the interviews, it seems these critical moments may unfold later in the season. However, given the unpredictable nature of racing at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, anything is possible.

Anticipation for Race Day

As the weekend approaches, the anticipation builds. Both fans and teams alike are eager to see how the dynamics will play out on the track. Will McLaren continue their strong performance? Can Ferrari and Mercedes challenge for the podium? And how will the rivalry between Norris and Piastri evolve as they inch closer to the championship?

The excitement surrounding the Montreal race weekend is palpable, and the stories emerging from the media day provide just a glimpse of the competitive spirit that defines Formula 1. As the teams finalize their preparations and the drivers focus on the task at hand, the stage is set for a thrilling display of speed, strategy, and skill on one of the most iconic circuits in the world.

Media Coverage and Fan Engagement

The media’s role in covering these events is crucial for maintaining fan engagement and excitement. As journalists capture the nuances of interviews, the stories shared by the drivers resonate with audiences, creating a deeper connection with the sport. The human element of racing—drivers sharing personal anecdotes, rivalries developing, and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with competition—adds layers to the spectacle of Formula 1.

Fans are not just spectators; they become part of the narrative, rooting for their favorite drivers and teams while following the ins and outs of the season. As the championship unfolds, the stories continue to evolve, and with each race, new chapters are written in the histories of these remarkable athletes and their teams.

The Montreal race weekend will undoubtedly deliver drama, excitement, and unforgettable moments that will be talked about long after the checkered flag waves. The anticipation is building, and all eyes will be on the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve as the 2025 season continues to unfold.