Driver Battles to Watch in 2025
- Kgopotso Msimanga
- Oct 18
- 3 min read
Formula 1: The Rookie Showdown
The 2025 F1 season has introduced a fresh wave of talent, with six rookies making their full-time debuts. Among them, Isack Hadjar has emerged as a standout, securing his first podium at the Dutch Grand Prix and consistently outperforming his Racing Bulls teammate, Liam Lawson. Hadjar's clean driving style and adaptability have made him a fan favourite and a driver to watch in the midfield. (SB Nation)
Kimi Antonelli, driving for Mercedes, has also impressed, achieving a podium finish in Canada and currently leading the rookie standings. His performance has been strong enough to earn him a contract extension with Mercedes for the 2026 season, alongside George Russell. (Reuters)
Oliver Bearman and Jack Doohan have faced challenges adapting to their new teams, with Bearman showing potential but struggling with consistency, while Doohan has had limited opportunities to showcase his skills. (The Race)
MotoGP: The Rising Stars
In MotoGP, the 2025 season has seen the emergence of several promising talents. Brian Uriarte has dominated the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup, showcasing exceptional skill and consistency. His performances have caught the attention of top teams, and he is expected to make his full-time MotoGP debut in the near future. (Red Bull)
Veda Pratama and Hakim Danish have also been impressive, with Pratama securing multiple podiums and Danish consistently finishing in the top five. Their performances indicate a bright future in the premier class of motorcycle racing. (Red Bull)
World Endurance Championship: The New Blood
The WEC has introduced fresh talent in its ranks, with drivers like Ollie Gray and Tom Fleming participating in the Bahrain Rookie Test. These young drivers have shown promise in their initial outings, and their performances in the test sessions will be crucial in determining their future in endurance racing. (FIA World Endurance Championship)
The Rivalries to Watch
Hadjar vs. Lawson (F1): Hadjar's rise has overshadowed Lawson, leading to increased scrutiny and pressure on the New Zealander.
Antonelli vs. Russell (F1): With both drivers now teammates, the internal battle at Mercedes will be one to watch, especially as the team prepares for the 2026 season.
Uriarte vs. Pratama (MotoGP): The rivalry between these two rising stars in the Rookies Cup is heating up, with both displaying exceptional talent and ambition.
Gray vs. Fleming (WEC): Their performances in the rookie test could set the stage for a long-standing rivalry in endurance racing.
Stats Snapshot
Max’s Take
The 2025 season is shaping up to be a landmark year for emerging talents across all motorsport disciplines. Isack Hadjar's impressive performances in F1 have not only put him on the map but also set a new benchmark for rookies entering the sport. In MotoGP, the fierce competition between Uriarte and Pratama is reminiscent of classic rivalries, promising exciting battles in the coming seasons. Meanwhile, the WEC's infusion of new talent, exemplified by Gray and Fleming, indicates a bright future for endurance racing.
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