Preparations for the 2025 Formula 1 season are in full swing as Sauber and Racing Bulls head to the iconic Imola circuit for an intensive multi-day test. With both teams looking to gain a competitive advantage, the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari will welcome their efforts to refine settings and integrate new driver lines.
Racing Bulls' three-day session with Tsunoda and rookie Hadjar
Racing Bulls, formerly AlphaTauri, will spend three days in Imola, taking advantage of its proximity to their base in Faenza. The team will count on 2025 drivers Yuki Tsunoda et Isack Hadjar to rack up crucial mileage in the 2023 AT04.
Tsunoda, now entering his fifth season with the team, is tasked with guiding Racing Bulls back to mid-pack contention after missing out on promotion to Red Bull Racing. Meanwhile, rookie Hadjar, replacing Liam Lawson, will make his Formula 1 debut and is eager to show his potential.
The reserve pilot Ayumu Iwasa will also get valuable time on the track, gaining experience behind the wheel of an F1 car as part of Racing Bulls' long-term strategy.
Sauber's departure before the Audi era
As Sauber prepares for its transition to Audi in 2026, the team is ready to use this test to fine-tune its 2022 C42 chassis with its new driver line-up. The veteran Nico Hulkenbergreturning to Sauber after years of absence, will share the cockpit with the very promising newcomer Gabriel Bortoletowho is making his Formula 1 debut after an impressive rise through the lower categories.
Having already familiarized both drivers with the team's operations during the post-season test in Abu Dhabi, Sauber aims to maximize its time at Imola, racing in parallel with Racing Bulls on Wednesday and Thursday.
-Stricter testing regulations in 2025
Both teams will operate under tighter testing restrictions in 2025, with their mileage at Imola deducted from the new imposed limit of 1,000 kilometers for previous specification cars. The changes are part of the FIA's efforts to reduce in-season testing and level the playing field.
Ferrari plans at Fiorano with Hamilton debut
Not to be outdone, Ferrari also plans to conduct its own tests later this week at Fiorano. The spotlight will be on Lewis Hamiltonwho will make his long-awaited debut under the colors of Ferrari. The seven-time world champion's first outing in red promises to be one of the most anticipated events of the off-season.
Key points for Sauber and Racing Bulls
With Sauber and Racing Bulls aiming for improvement in 2025, these early tests will be crucial in shaping their seasons. For Racing Bulls, it is about integrating rookie talents while relying on Tsunoda's experience. Sauber, meanwhile, is looking to establish consistency ahead of its rebranding with Audi, with Hulkenberg's veteran insight and Bortoleto's fresh energy expected to play key roles.
As teams refine their settings and drivers settle into their new roles, the stage is set for an exciting 2025 Formula 1 campaign.
