The 2025 Formula 1 season has begun with an initial show of strength from both McLaren and Ferrari. The same teams that already showed signs of being the team to beat throughout a very fast and committed preseason, have been able to confirm at the Australian Grand Prix that they are the favourites for the title. With Red Bull in trouble and Mercedes somewhat shaky, the fight for the title could once again focus on the duel between Woking and Maranello. On the other hand, the season is very long and any small detail could change the situation of each of the teams.
Ferrari sets the pace at the start of the season
Charles Leclerc has started the season in the best possible way, setting the best time in free practice on the opening day in Melbourne. The Monegasque driver, who already showed great form and performance at the end of the 2024 season and in the preseason, is proof that Ferrari can fight for the title.
On the other hand, Lewis Hamilton, who is making his first appearance with the Italian team, is still in the process of adapting. His performance has been somewhat light compared to his teammate, lagging more than six tenths of a second behind in the first free practice sessions. The seven-time champion has admitted that he is experiencing difficulties with the understeer of the SF25, so Ferrari will be forced to adapt it to his driving style or Hamilton will have to change his way of driving.
Long stints for Ferrari
Ferrari was the fastest team, but the long runs were also positive. The Italian team has demonstrated a good pace for the race, confirming its status as a title contender. But McLaren is there and could have a slight advantage, which could play in their favor in the race.
McLaren is shaping up to be the big rival
Mclaren has also confirmed that it is still in good shape: Both Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris have confirmed that McLaren is the team to beat in Melbourne, as it is a very well-balanced car in both qualifying and race conditions.
Piastri is racing at home and wants to finish behind Norris. The free practice sessions suggest that he could pose a tough challenge to McLaren’s internal leadership, which could lead to a fierce rivalry throughout the year.
McLaren has worked hard to produce a balanced car that is competitive in both qualifying and the race. Stability and tire management could be a determining factor in whether it can stand up to Ferrari throughout the season. While it may be true that the British team has a slight advantage in some respects, the World Championship is a long one and a small or minimal thing can tip the balance.
The season is long and anything can happen
Although Ferrari and McLaren seem to be the favorites at the start of the season, the Formula 1 World Championship is unpredictable. The teams will evolve and the differences may progressively change as the races progress. Red Bull could reverse its poor start to the season thanks to the profitability of its development and Mercedes will try to close the gap on the leading teams.