Analyzing the 2025 Formula 1 Rookie Class: A Closer Look at the New Faces on the Grid
The 2025 Formula 1 season has ignited excitement among fans with the introduction of several fresh talents making their mark in the racing world. This year marks the complete rookie season for several drivers including Kimi Antonelli, Isack Hadjar, Liam Lawson, Oliver Bearman, and Gabriel Bortoleto. Although some of them have previously participated in sporadic races, this is their initial full-fledged campaign in the sport. Although Jack Doohan was also expected to debut, he has been replaced by Franco Colapinto at Alpine. With 12 races completed, let’s dive into how each of these newcomers is faring in their inaugural season.
Kimi Antonelli: Rising Star at Mercedes
Kimi Antonelli has stepped into the formidable shoes of Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes, a task not to be taken lightly. At just 18 years of age, Antonelli has shown promise this season by scoring points in half of the races held so far. His crowning achievement came during the Canadian Grand Prix, where he secured his first podium finish, making him the only rookie to achieve such a feat this year.
However, Antonelli’s recent performances have been marred by challenges. Following his podium in Canada, he faced setbacks during the Austrian Grand Prix, where he was involved in a collision with Max Verstappen, and then again in the British Grand Prix, where he clashed with Isack Hadjar. These incidents resulted in him retiring from both races, leaving him feeling disheartened. In a candid interview, Antonelli expressed his struggles with motivation amidst these setbacks. Nevertheless, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff acknowledged that the team shares some responsibility for Antonelli’s difficulties and is working diligently to help him regain his confidence and focus.
Despite the challenges he’s encountered, Antonelli currently sits in seventh place in the drivers’ championship standings, having amassed 63 points, trailing Hamilton, who has collected 103 points in his Ferrari.
Isack Hadjar: Overcoming Early Setbacks
Isack Hadjar, the Franco-Algerian driver for Racing Bulls, entered the season with a fair share of scrutiny following a disappointing debut that saw him retire on the formation lap of his first Formula 1 race. His emotional reaction to the incident drew criticism from Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko. However, Hadjar has demonstrated resilience, bouncing back to score points in five of the 12 races thus far.
Hadjar’s performances have been commendable, especially when considering the pressure he faced early on. His best result came at the Monaco Grand Prix, where he crossed the finish line in sixth place. His consistent performances have sparked discussions about his potential to replace Yuki Tsunoda as the second driver alongside Max Verstappen. Despite the speculation, Hadjar has humbly stated that he does not feel prepared to take on such a significant role just yet.
Currently, Hadjar is in 11th place in the drivers’ standings, with a total of 21 points—three times the number of points scored by Tsunoda in the Red Bull team so far this season.
Liam Lawson: A Familiar Face
Liam Lawson is no stranger to the Formula 1 environment, having filled in for Daniel Ricciardo during the 2023 and 2024 seasons. However, this year marks his first complete season in the sport. Lawson was promoted to Red Bull, and initially, things appeared promising. Unfortunately, he was demoted back to Racing Bulls after just two races alongside Verstappen.
Returning to Racing Bulls seems to have revitalized Lawson, who has shown improved command over the car. Although he has only scored points in two races, his performances suggest a growing familiarity with the vehicle. His best finish came in the Austrian Grand Prix, where he placed sixth. Currently, Lawson occupies 16th place in the championship standings, with 12 points.
Oliver Bearman: Consistency Amidst Challenges
Oliver Bearman, who previously stepped in for Carlos Sainz at Ferrari, is having a steady rookie season despite not yet accruing significant points. Out of the 12 races, he has only retired once, during the Miami Grand Prix in May. Bearman’s debut year has been typical for a rookie, filled with both mistakes and successes. However, his last points finish dates back to the Bahrain Grand Prix, indicating a need for further development.
Bearman currently sits in 18th place in the drivers’ standings, having collected 6 points so far. In comparison, his teammate Esteban Ocon has managed to score 23 points this season, highlighting the gap Bearman aims to close as he continues to adapt to the demands of Formula 1.
Gabriel Bortoleto: A Learning Experience
The Brazilian driver Gabriel Bortoleto took 11 races to finally score his first points, but his performances have indicated potential, especially during qualifying sessions. Throughout the season, Bortoleto has faced challenges with his car and some strategic missteps, making this year a significant learning opportunity for the reigning Formula 2 champion.
With the unexpected podium finish by Nico Hülkenberg, there is optimism that Bortoleto will have additional chances to score points in the remaining races. Currently, he ranks 19th in the standings with 4 points, which he earned during the Austrian Grand Prix.
Conclusion
The 2025 season has proven to be a critical year for these five rookies as they navigate the complexities of Formula 1 racing. While they each face their own unique challenges and experiences, the determination and skill they have showcased so far suggest that they are more than capable of leaving their mark in the sport. As the season progresses, fans will undoubtedly continue to watch their journeys with keen interest, eager to see how these young talents evolve in one of the most competitive arenas in motorsport.
By focusing on their individual stories and performances, we gain a deeper understanding of the dynamics at play in Formula 1, making it a thrilling time for both the drivers and the fans who support them.
