Formula 1 is about to enter the last year of its current technical regulations before the revolution set to begin on January 1, 2026. On paper, it may seem like a transitional year, but in reality, it could be one of the most fiercely contested seasons of the modern era.
The second half of the 2024 Formula 1 season saw four teams and seven drivers capable of winning a Grand Prix, with minimal gaps between cars. This year, the expectation is that competition will tighten even further, not just among the top four teams.
That’s why Lando Norris, who will be chasing his first Drivers’ Championship after helping McLaren secure the Constructors’ title, has highlighted how Formula 1 could see an even wider battle for victory, allowing for potential surprises after the early stages of the season.
“This year, we expect teams to be even closer in terms of performance,” Norris said. “Every time regulations remain unchanged, teams get closer and closer. That’s how it has always been.”
“Already by the end of last year, the field was quite tight, and we started seeing the midfield catching up and getting closer to the frontrunners.”
“I expect this to happen even more throughout this season. There will probably be new teams able to win a race, not just McLaren, Ferrari, Mercedes, or Red Bull. And I think that’s good for both Formula 1 and the fans.”
“I believe the fight for victory won’t just be between the usual contenders. This year will be a bit different. Maybe not at the start, but as the season progresses, we’ll see a much more dynamic situation.”
In this era of Formula 1, no team outside the top four has managed to win a race. The last to achieve such a feat was Esteban Ocon at the 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix, securing the first and, so far, only win of his F1 career.
In the final year of the current regulations, several drivers share Norris’ view, including his teammate Oscar Piastri.
“If we look at the final part of last season, with the number of different winners from various teams, everything suggests that 2025 will be highly competitive. From track to track, things will be very unpredictable.”
“Throughout most of 2024, we thought we were in contention for victory, but for much of the season, we didn’t even know who our main rival would be, as the situation changed from week to week. I expect the same to happen this year.”
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