The FIA commissioner and former F1 pilot Johnny Herbert expressed support to Lewis Hamiltonsuggesting that a eighth record world championship with Ferrari In 2025 would be the ultimate intrigue for Formula 1. However, Herbert also recognized the growing force of McLarenpredicting that the Woking -based team is the favorite for the manufacturers and pilots championships next season.
The dynamics of McLaren and the prospects of 2025
By thinking about McLaren's performance in 2024, Herbert rented the Return in force of the Papaya team. Led by Lando Norris et Oscar PiastriMcLaren won the manufacturers' championship after a fierce battle with Ferrari, marking the first title of the team since 1998.
“I would expect McLaren to start stronger than the others. But as we saw last year, the beginning is crucial. Red Bull's early domination has given Verstappen enough margin to defend his crown, even with a slowdown in the middle of the season. explained Herbert.
Herbert predicted that McLaren would be a force with which it is necessary to count, but stressed the importance of maintaining their momentum throughout the season, which they had trouble doing in the previous two years.
Hamilton and Ferrari: a championship dream
When he was asked what would be his ideal result for the 2025 season, Herbert did not hesitate to dream big:
“Yes, I think Lewis Hamilton winning the championship this year would be the perfect scenario. He is at Ferrari now – without doubt the most emblematic team of motorsport – and see him reach this record title of eighth would be nothing less than historic. »»
Hamilton, who joined Ferrari after more than a decade at Mercedes, must take up the challenge of adapting to a new team dynamic while facing a strong opposition from McLaren, Red Bull and Aston Martin.
-Two McLaren: Norris Contre Piastri
The competition between the McLaren pilots Lando Norris et Oscar Piastri is another story that Herbert follows closely. With six victories between them in 2024, the duo established McLaren as a leading competitor. However, Herbert noted the potential for sparks:
“Lando and Oscar were fantastic for McLaren, but let's not forget how tight things can become when the teammates are fighting for the same championship. This could be difficult for the two pilots as the issues increase. »»
Ferrari vs. McLaren: a battle of giants
Although Herbert thinks that Ferrari's return would be brilliant for sport, he remains emotionally attached to McLaren's inheritance:
“Ferrari's victory in the championship would be brilliant for F1. But for me, seeing McLaren finally return to his dominant form would be even better. They have existed for as long as Ferrari, and their recent performances show that they are ready for glory. »»
2025 predictions: key players
- Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari : In search of an eighth record title.
- Max Verstappen et Red Bull : Recovering from a hollow in the middle of the season in 2024 to defend its pilot title.
- Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri : Aims to bring back to McLaren his first pilot championship since Mika Hakkinen in 1999.
The verdict
While the 2025 season is approaching, Herbert's comments underline an exciting narrative for F1 fans. Whether Hamilton reaching grandeur with Ferrari or McLaren consolidating his domination, the battle for supremacy promises to be memorable. One thing is certain: the issues have never been so high.
