The 2025 Formula 1 season promises to be a breath of fresh air with an influx of rookies set to shake up the grid. After 2024 started with no new drivers—a first since 1969—F1 teams appear ready to embrace 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 stints to Andrea Kimi Antonelli’s prodigious rise, here’s a deep dive into the rookies poised to make their mark in 2025—and beyond.
Oliver Bearman: A Pay Driver With a Competitive Edge
19-year-old Oliver Bearman turned heads when he stepped into Carlos Sainz’s Ferrari at the 2024 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and finished P7 despite battling physical challenges. He followed up 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 pay driver backed by his father’s billion-dollar businesses, Bearman offers significant financial support to Haas. While his speed is undeniable, he’ll need more consistency to catch the eye of top teams.
Future Outlook:
A fast driver with financial backing, Bearman could become a reliable midfield presence akin to early-career Sergio Pérez. But to climb higher, he must refine his racecraft and minimize mistakes.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli: Mercedes’ Prodigy on the Rise
At just 18 years old, Andrea Kimi Antonelli arrives in F1 with sky-high expectations. The Italian has dominated junior categories, winning four championships in three years, drawing comparisons to the likes of Charles Leclerc and George Russell. While his F2 season with Prema Racing started slowly due to car setup 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 in their early F1 days. Joining Mercedes, however, means he’ll need a competitive car to showcase his potential.
Future Outlook:
If Mercedes delivers a solid package in 2025, Antonelli could surprise with podium finishes—and possibly even a win. His long-term trajectory suggests he could become a future world champion.
Gabriel Bortoleto: A Star in the Making at Sauber
Leading the F2 championship with one round remaining, Gabriel Bortoleto has impressed with his consistency and standout performances, including a sensational win at Monza from 22nd on the grid. However, his 2025 debut with Sauber (soon to become Audi) puts him in a challenging position, as the team currently languishes at the back of the grid.
Bortoleto’s talent is evident, but the limitations of the Sauber package may hinder 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-tier seat once Audi’s 2026 project kicks into high gear.
Jack Doohan: Alpine’s Familiar Face
After a year as Alpine’s reserve driver, Jack Doohan steps into a full-time seat alongside Pierre Gasly. While his 2023 F2 season (P3 in the standings) was solid, he’s flown under the radar compared to some of his peers. However, his intimate knowledge of Alpine’s operations gives him a head start in acclimating to F1.
Doohan may not grab headlines immediately, but his familiarity with the team could make him one of the more consistent rookies on the grid.
Future Outlook:
Steady and reliable, Doohan’s success will depend on Alpine’s car development. If the team progresses, he could establish himself as a strong midfield contender.
Franco Colapinto: The Dark Horse
Franco Colapinto has already made waves as Logan Sargeant’s replacement at Williams. With two points finishes in his first six races, he’s proven himself capable of matching seasoned teammate Alex Albon. While the Sao Paulo Grand Prix was a reality check, Colapinto has shown promise.
Despite his impressive performances, Colapinto doesn’t have a confirmed seat for 2025—yet. Rumors of a potential move to RB or another team could change that in an instant.
Future Outlook:
If Colapinto secures a full-time seat, he could become one of the standout rookies of 2025. His adaptability and raw talent make him a wildcard in F1’s evolving landscape.
What This Rookie Wave Means for F1
The arrival of so many rookies marks a shift in how teams approach talent development. Standout junior performances and impressive stand-in drives, such as 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 highly skilled, with championship pedigrees and proven adaptability. Their success—or struggles—could reshape the F1 grid for years to come.
What to Expect in 2025
- Bearman’s Consistency Challenge: Can he translate flashes of brilliance into sustained performances?
- Antonelli’s Ceiling: Will Mercedes provide him with a car capable of matching his raw talent?
- Bortoleto’s Resilience: How will he handle a tough rookie season at Sauber?
- Doohan’s Alpine Integration: Can his familiarity with the team give him an edge over other rookies?
- Colapinto’s Uncertainty: Will he secure 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 lineups in recent memory. With a mix of raw talent, proven success in junior categories, and high-profile team placements, these drivers are set to redefine the sport’s future. While challenges abound, their potential to inject fresh 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?