Formula 1 News of the Week – February 24, 2025

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The Formula 1 offseason is in full swing, but the sport never truly slows down. With the 2025 season fast approaching, teams have officially launched their new challengers, pre-season testing is just days away, and major technical innovations are being revealed across the paddock.

This week, the F1 75 Live event brought all ten teams together for an unprecedented season launch, Ferrari unveiled significant changes to its 2025 car, and young star Andrea Kimi Antonelli made it clear that he is ready to forge his own path at Mercedes. Here’s everything you need to know in Formula 1 this week.

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F1 75 Live: A Historic Season Launch Event

For the first time ever, all ten Formula 1 teams gathered in London’s O2 Arena to officially unveil their cars and drivers for the upcoming season. The F1 75 Live event, celebrating Formula 1’s 75th anniversary, featured spectacular livery reveals, live entertainment, and exclusive insights from team principals and drivers.

The event was hosted by British comedian Jack Whitehall, whose humor added an engaging touch to the night. More than 15,000 fans attended in person, while over one million viewers tuned in via live streaming, making it the most-watched pre-season launch in Formula 1 history.

Key Highlights from F1 75 Live:

  • Lewis Hamilton’s Ferrari Debut: The seven-time World Champion stepped out in Ferrari red for the first time, standing alongside Charles Leclerc as they presented the SF-25. The unveiling of Hamilton’s new car drew the loudest cheers of the night.
  • McLaren’s Title Defense: Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri showcased their MCL39, emphasizing the team’s focus on retaining their Constructors’ Championship title.
  • Red Bull’s Bold Entrance: Max Verstappen and new teammate Liam Lawson introduced the RB21 amid a dramatic entrance featuring flashing lights and a Rolling Stones track.
  • Williams’ New Era: Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon revealed the FW47, marking the beginning of a fresh chapter for the legendary team under James Vowles.
  • Mercedes’ Future: With George Russell taking center stage, the team introduced Andrea Kimi Antonelli, their new rising star, to an enthusiastic reception.
  • Alpine, Haas & Kick Sauber: These teams revealed their aggressive 2025 designs, with Alpine introducing a striking new livery and Haas unveiling their VF-25.

The event also featured a special tribute to the sport’s history, including footage from past eras of Formula 1 and messages from legendary drivers, celebrating the 75-year journey of the sport. Music performances from Take That and Kane Brown added to the grandeur, making the night a fusion of motorsport, entertainment, and nostalgia.

With over one million live viewers tuning in worldwide, F1 75 Live set a new benchmark for pre-season hype, making it the most-watched team launch event in the sport’s history.

Formula 1’s Ferrari’s SF-25: A Technical Revolution

Ferrari enters the 2025 season with high hopes, unveiling the radically reworked SF-25, a car featuring significant aerodynamic and mechanical innovations aimed at securing their first title since 2007.

Key Changes to the SF-25:

  • Front Suspension Overhaul: Ferrari has switched from a push-rod to a pull-rod layout, optimizing airflow around the car.
  • Increased Wheelbase: A longer wheelbase improves aerodynamic efficiency and enhances downforce.
  • Redesigned Sidepods & Cooling System: More aggressive undercuts improve airflow to the rear, maximizing rear stability.
  • Refined Rear Wing & Diffuser: A focus on better aerodynamic efficiency aims to increase top speed and balance cornering performance.

Ferrari completed its first shakedown at Fiorano, with both Leclerc and Hamilton getting their first laps in the SF-25 before pre-season testing in Bahrain.

Andrea Kimi Antonelli: Carving His Own Path at Mercedes

At just 18 years old, Andrea Kimi Antonelli steps into the Mercedes seat vacated by Lewis Hamilton, determined to make a name for himself rather than be viewed as Hamilton’s replacement.

“I don’t find it right to say that I’m his replacement. I just feel like the next Mercedes driver, and I really want to make my own story.” – Antonelli

The Italian prodigy, a long-time member of the Mercedes Junior Team, has dominated junior categories and now finds himself partnered with George Russell at one of F1’s most successful teams. Pre-season testing will give the first real glimpse into how Antonelli adapts to the highest level of motorsport.

Pre-Season Testing: The 2025 Grid Hits the Track

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Formula 1’s official pre-season test will take place from February 26 to 28 in Bahrain, offering teams a final chance to assess their cars before the season opener in Melbourne.

What to Watch for in Pre-Season Testing:

  • Ferrari’s Performance: Can the SF-25’s radical upgrades put them on top?
  • Red Bull’s Stability: Will the team maintain its dominant form with the RB21?
  • McLaren’s Development: Can last year’s title winners retain their edge?
  • Mercedes’ Evolution: How will Antonelli stack up against Russell?

With the Australian Grand Prix just around the corner, Bahrain will provide the first true indication of the competitive order for 2025.

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Final Thoughts – The 2025 Season Is Taking Shape

With the most-watched season launch event in history, significant technical upgrades from Ferrari, and an exciting new rookie debuting at Mercedes, the stage is set for an exhilarating year in Formula 1. Pre-season testing will offer crucial insights into team performance, but one thing is already clear—2025 is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling seasons in recent memory.

Sources

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