The wait is almost over, and this coming weekend, Formula 1 will once again be racing for points. The 2025 season kicks off with the Australian Grand Prix this weekend, and we have taken a look at the rule changes and other adjustments introduced for this season.
Less than a Week Until the Season Begins
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Today, there are only four days left until the start of the 2025 Formula 1 season, as the first race in Australia takes place on Sunday, March 16
The Teams Have Already Been Busy Testing
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However, we already got a small taste of what the Formula 1 cars are capable of this season during pre-season testing, which took place from February 26-28 in Sakhir, Bahrain.
The minimum weight of the cars will increase from 798 kg (1,759 lbs) to 800 kg (1,764 lbs). This is due to an adjustment in the minimum driver weight, increasing from 80 kg (176 lbs) to 82 kg (181 lbs). Goal: Improve safety and health for taller drivers like Albon, Russell, and Ocon.
McLaren’s “mini-DRS” concept from 2024 is now banned. The minimum rear wing gap is reduced from 10-15 mm (0.39-0.59 inches) to 9.4-13 mm (0.37-0.51 inches). The DRS activation gap remains at a maximum of 85 mm (3.35 inches). Tighter rules on flexible front wings will be enforced starting at the Spanish GP.
Mandatory Driver Cooling Systems
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After the extreme heat at the 2023 Qatar GP, where several drivers suffered heatstroke, the FIA is mandating cooling systems in extreme temperatures. If temperatures exceed 30.5°C (86.9°F), cars must have an active cooling solution. The minimum car weight will be increased further to compensate:
+2 kg (4.4 lbs) for practice, qualifying, and sprint qualifying.
+5 kg (11 lbs) for sprint races and Grand Prix races.
Goodbye to Fastest Lap Bonus Point
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The bonus point for setting the fastest lap in the top 10 is being removed. The FIA aims to prevent “tactical” pit stops solely to deny rivals an extra point. Several drivers, including Russell and Leclerc, support the change.
More Young Driver FP1 Sessions
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The mandatory FP1 sessions for young drivers will double from 2 to 4. Each car must be used at least twice per season. This aims to give more opportunities for rising talents from F2 and F3.
Teams are now limited to 20 test days with cars that are at least two years old. F1 drivers are restricted to a maximum of 1,000 km (621 miles) over four days. Testing is not allowed on circuits on the race calendar within 60 days of a scheduled GP.
New Method for Setting the Grid
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If qualifying cannot take place, the grid will be set based on the championship standings. This rule also applies to sprint races. For the first race of the season, stewards will decide the grid order.
New Rule for Grid Positioning
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If a car withdraws at least 75 minutes before the start, the rest of the grid moves up. This prevents empty grid slots after incidents.
Stricter Regulations on Driver Conduct
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The FIA is implementing stricter guidelines on inappropriate comments. Drivers can now receive point deductions or suspensions for repeated offenses.
The 2025 season will be the first without Kevin Magnussen, Sergio Pérez, Zhou Guanyu, and Daniel Ricciardo on the F1 grid. Additionally, Valtteri Bottas does not have a full-time seat, but as Mercedes’ reserve driver, there is a possibility he could get an opportunity to race.
Lewis Hamilton to Ferrari
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After a successful 12-year tenure with Mercedes, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has joined Scuderia Ferrari on a multi-year deal, partnering with Charles Leclerc.
Carlos Sainz Jr. to Williams
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Departing Ferrari, Carlos Sainz Jr. has signed a multi-year contract with Williams, teaming up with Alex Albon
Nico Hülkenberg & Gabriel Bortoleto to Sauber
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After two seasons with Haas, Nico Hülkenberg moves to Kick Sauber (preparing to become Audi’s works team in 2026), partnering with rookie Gabriel Bortoleto
Red Bull junior driver Isack Hadjar secures a seat at Racing Bulls, partnering with Yuki Tsunoda.
And that covers all the biggest and most important changes ahead of the upcoming season. We’re excited for the first race, and with Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari, it will be especially thrilling to see if he can secure his eighth World Championship.
