As the 2025 Formula 1 season approaches, excitement and speculation abound regarding who will emerge as the primary challenger to Max Verstappen.

Former F1 driver and current Viaplay analyst, Guido van der Garde, shares his insights on the upcoming season, the rookies, and the changes within teams.A New Era for HamiltonOne of the most significant storylines this season is Lewis Hamilton’s transition to Ferrari.

Van der Garde expresses enthusiasm about Hamilton’s move, indicating that it signifies a fresh start for the seven-time world champion. He acknowledges Hamilton’s past struggles at Mercedes but believes the Italian team’s evolution makes them competitive.

Van der Garde predicts that Hamilton will contend for the championship, emphasizing his motivation to adapt to Ferrari’s culture and approach.

Hamilton’s partnership with Charles Leclerc is expected to be thrilling. Van der Garde notes that Leclerc’s proficiency in qualifying could create a dynamic rivalry. He believes both drivers can learn from each other—Hamilton could gain insights from Leclerc’s speed, while Leclerc can benefit from Hamilton’s racecraft.Expectations for the RookiesThe rookie class of 2025 presents a mixture of promise and uncertainty. Van der Garde highlights Liam Lawson and Kimmy Antonelli as two rookies to watch. Lawson is expected to benefit from his partnership with Verstappen at Red Bull; being around an elite driver provides invaluable learning opportunities. Van der Garde believes Lawson should remain focused and not succumb to the pressure of comparisons.On the other hand, he expresses some skepticism about Jack Doohan, predicting he may struggle to impress in his debut season. The competitive nature of F1 means that rookies often face steep learning curves, and Van der Garde emphasizes the importance of patience.

Verstappen’s Continued DominanceMax Verstappen is positioned as the benchmark for all drivers in 2025. Van der Garde asserts that Verstappen has not had an “off day” in over a year, consistently extracting maximum performance from his car. While he acknowledges that Ferrari’s upgrades could make them a formidable opponent, he maintains that Verstappen remains the top driver, capable of handling any challenges that come his way.The integration of new rules and regulations is expected to level the playing field, making the competition tighter. However, Van der Garde believes that experience and minimizing mistakes will be crucial for success, placing Verstappen and Hamilton at the forefront of the title race.Predictions for the SeasonAs the conversation shifts towards predictions, Van der Garde confidently states that Hamilton will be a serious contender for the championship, alongside Verstappen. He outlines a scenario where both drivers could be neck-and-neck, with the title potentially decided in the final race of the season. This creates an enticing narrative for fans, who relish the prospect of a high-stakes showdown.

Van der Garde also points out the significance of McLaren and their drivers, suggesting that if Lando Norris can maintain his form, he could challenge for podiums. The continuous improvement of McLaren adds another layer of complexity to the championship race.The Role of ExperienceVan der Garde’s insights extend to the psychological aspect of the sport. He reflects on how age and experience influence a driver’s performance. As Hamilton approaches his 40s, he recognizes the potential for diminished sharpness compared to younger competitors like Verstappen. He notes that while Hamilton remains incredibly talented, the pressures of competing at the highest level can take a toll over time.

ConclusionAs we gear up for the 2025 Formula 1 season, the combination of veteran drivers and promising rookies sets the stage for an exciting championship battle. With Hamilton’s transition to Ferrari, Verstappen’s relentless pursuit of perfection, and the emergence of new talent, fans can expect a season filled with drama, rivalry, and unforgettable moments.The upcoming races, including Australia and China, will be pivotal in shaping the season’s narrative. As teams finalize their preparations, all eyes will be on the track to see who will rise to the occasion and claim their place in Formula 1 history.