The 2025 Formula 1 season promises to be a breath of fresh air with an influx of rookies ready to shake up the grid. After 2024 began without new drivers—a first since 1969—F1 teams appear ready to welcome emerging talent despite the risks. This wave of young drivers brings excitement, potential and a touch of unpredictability to the sport.
From Oliver Bearman's early F1 experiences to Andrea Kimi Antonelli's prodigious rise, here's an in-depth look at the rookies poised to make their mark in 2025—and beyond.
Oliver Bearman: A Pay Driver With a Competitive Edge
Oliver Bearman, 19, attracted attention when he took a seat in Carlos Sainz's Ferrari at the 2024 Saudi Grand Prix and finished P7 despite facing physical challenges. He followed with another points finish for Haas in Baku, becoming the first driver in F1 history to score in his debut races for two different teams.
However, Bearman's subsequent struggles at Interlagos and a lackluster F2 season (currently P15 in the standings) suggest he still has much to prove. As a paid driver backed by his father's billion-dollar companies, Bearman provides significant financial support to Haas. While his speed is undeniable, he will need more consistency to attract the attention of top teams.
Future outlook:
A fast driver with financial backing, Bearman could become a reliable presence in the middle of the pack, similar to an early-career Sergio Pérez. But to climb the ladder, he must refine his driving and minimize errors.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli: Mercedes prodigy on the rise
At just 18 years old, Andrea Kimi Antonelli arrives in F1 with very high expectations. The Italian dominated the junior categories, winning four championships in three years, earning him comparisons to drivers like Charles Leclerc and George Russell. Although his F2 season with Prema Racing started slowly due to car tuning issues, Antonelli found his stride with two wins and a podium in the second half of 2024.
Many believe Antonelli's precocious talent could make him an immediate contender, much like Max Verstappen or Kimi Räikkönen early in their F1 careers. However, joining Mercedes means he will need a competitive car to show his potential.
Future outlook:
If Mercedes offers a strong package in 2025, Antonelli could surprise with podiums – and maybe even a victory. His long-term trajectory suggests he could become a future world champion.
Gabriel Bortoleto: A star in the making at Sauber
Leader of the F2 championship with one round remaining, Gabriel Bortoleto has impressed with his consistency and remarkable performances, including a sensational victory at Monza from 22nd on the grid. However, his 2025 start with Sauber (soon to become Audi) puts him in a difficult position, as the team currently sits at the back of the grid.
Bortoleto's talent is obvious, but the limitations of the Sauber package could hamper his ability to shine. The Brazilian will need mental resilience to navigate a potentially difficult rookie season.
Future outlook:
If Bortoleto can weather the storm at Sauber and keep his confidence intact, he could become a prime candidate for a top seat once the Audi 2026 project takes off.
Jack Doohan: The familiar face of Alpine
After a year as Alpine's reserve driver, Jack Doohan takes a full-time seat alongside Pierre Gasly. Although his 2023 F2 season (P3 in the standings) was solid, he remained under the radar compared to some of his peers. However, his intimate knowledge of Alpine's operations gives him a head start in adapting to F1.
Doohan may not make headlines immediately, but his familiarity with the team could make him one of the most consistent rookies on the grid.
Future preview:
Stable and reliable, Doohan's success will depend on the development of Alpine's car. If the team improves, he could establish himself as a strong mid-pack contender.
Franco Colapinto: The Black Horse
Franco Colapinto has already made a splash as Logan Sargeant's replacement at Williams. With two points finishes in his first six races, he proved he could compete with experienced teammate Alex Albon. Although the Sao Paulo Grand Prix was a reality check, Colapinto showed potential.
Despite his impressive performances, Colapinto does not yet have a confirmed seat for 2025. Rumors regarding a possible move to RB or another team could change that in an instant.
Future preview:
If Colapinto gets a full-time seat, he could become one of the defining rookies of 2025. His adaptability and raw talent make him a wild card in the evolving F1 landscape.
What this wave of rookies means for F1
The arrival of so many rookies marks a shift in the way teams approach talent development. Standout junior performances and impressive replacement runs, such as those of Nyck de Vries at Monza in 2022 and Oliver Bearman in Saudi Arabia, have convinced teams to take calculated risks.
This new generation of drivers is not only young, but also very talented, with a championship track record and proven adaptability. Their success — or their struggles — could redefine the F1 grid for years to come.
What to expect in 2025
- Bearman Consistency Challenge: Can it translate flashes of brilliance into sustained performance?
- Antonelli ceiling: Will Mercedes provide him with a car that can match his raw talent?
- Bortoleto Resilience: How will he manage a difficult rookie season at Sauber?
- Integration of Doohan at Alpine: Can his familiarity with the team give him an advantage over other rookies?
- Colapinto uncertainty: Will he get a full-time seat and continue to impress?
Conclusion: The dawn of a new era
F1's class of 2025 represents one of the most exciting rookie line-ups in recent memory. With a blend of raw talent, proven success in junior categories and placements on top teams, these drivers are poised to redefine the future of the sport. Although challenges are present, their potential to inject new energy and competition into Formula 1 is undeniable.
The only question now is: who among them will rise to the occasion and become the sport's next superstar?
