Formula 1’s “Silly Season” has kicked into high gear earlier than expected, with Lewis Hamilton’s surprise move to Ferrari for 2025 announced back in February 2024. As a result, the driver market is more intense than ever, with multiple contracts expiring at the end of this season. With over half of the 2025 grid now confirmed, let’s take a look at the latest developments and what they mean for the future of Formula 1.
Alpine F1 Team
Pierre Gasly has signed a multi-year contract extension with Alpine, a team he joined in 2023. The French driver’s decision was influenced by the impending departure of his team-mate Esteban Ocon, with whom he has a fractious relationship. Alpine has made a bid for Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz, who needs a new team due to Hamilton’s arrival next year. However, Sainz is wanted by several teams and is taking his time to decide.
Aston Martin F1 Team
Aston Martin has announced an unchanged driver line-up for 2025, with Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll set to continue their partnership. Alonso signed a two-year extension in April, while Stroll’s contract length has never been formally disclosed.
Ferrari F1 Team
Ferrari shocked the paddock by announcing Lewis Hamilton’s move to the team in 2025. Hamilton has a multi-year contract, and will partner Charles Leclerc, who signed a multi-year extension in January. The goal is clear: to end Red Bull’s dominance and deliver Ferrari’s first championship-winning season since 2008.
Haas F1 Team
Haas is the only team yet to confirm either of its 2025 drivers. However, F2’s Oliver Bearman is expected to fill one of the seats. The 19-year-old Ferrari junior has impressed in his four FP1 sessions for Haas and is a strong contender for the role.
McLaren F1 Team
McLaren’s improvement since the beginning of last year has been remarkable, and the team has confirmed that Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri will remain as team-mates for a third consecutive season in 2025. Both drivers have contributed to McLaren’s form, and their partnership will continue to be a key factor in the team’s success.
Mercedes-AMG F1 Team
Mercedes has confirmed that George Russell will remain with the team until the end of 2025, but his team-mate for next season is still unclear. The leading candidate is 17-year-old Andrea Kimi Antonelli, who is regarded as one of the biggest talents in motorsport.
Red Bull Racing
Red Bull has announced that Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez will continue their partnership for a fifth season in 2025. Despite Perez’s poor results, Christian Horner has publicly stated his faith in the Mexican driver.
RB F1 Team
Yuki Tsunoda is set to remain at RB for a fifth consecutive season after signing a contract extension into 2025. The Japanese driver has consistently impressed, and his future at the team looks bright.
Sauber F1 Team
Sauber is undergoing significant changes ahead of its transformation into the Audi F1 team in 2026. Nico Hulkenberg has signed a multi-year contract, and the team is keen to partner him with Carlos Sainz in 2025.
Williams Racing
Williams has made a bid for Sainz, but the Spaniard is stalling over his decision. Alex Albon has signed a multi-year extension, and the team is exploring options for its second driver, including Bottas and Ocon.
With the Formula 1 driver market still in flux, one thing is certain: the 2025 season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent history. Stay tuned for further updates on the Formula 1 standings, calendar, and driver market developments as they happen.
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