Get ready for a thrilling ride as we dive into the world of Formula 1 and its newest crop of rookies! The future of F1 is here, and it's time to uncover the stars of tomorrow.
Every once in a while, a Formula 1 season introduces a group of rookies who leave an indelible mark on the sport. Based on the early signs, the class of 2025 could be one for the ages.
While it's too soon to proclaim this group as one of the greatest rookie fields in history, alongside the likes of Kimi Räikkönen, Juan Pablo Montoya, and Fernando Alonso in 2001, or Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel in 2007, the potential is certainly there. But here's where it gets controversial...
Let's rank these rookies based on their impressive performances and explore what they need to prove in 2026 to take their careers to the next level.
1st - Isack Hadjar: The Rising Star
Hadjar's season started with a bang, quite literally, as he experienced a shunt during the formation lap in Australia. Despite this early setback, Red Bull's initial doubts about him quickly faded as he showcased his adaptability and set high standards for himself. With only two failures to escape Q1 in 30 attempts, he proved his consistency and knack for delivering results.
His high point came at Zandvoort, where he finished on the podium, but there were numerous other strong weekends. Unfortunately, he also faced some setbacks beyond his control, like the front wing failure in Qatar that led to a puncture.
While he made a few mistakes along the way, such as crashing during his first Q1 lap in Austin, his overall performance exceeded expectations for a newcomer.
The Challenge Ahead:
In 2026, Hadjar faces the toughest task of all the rookies. Having excelled in a Racing Bulls car that was relatively easy to set up and perform consistently, he must now prove he can succeed as Max Verstappen's teammate. The key will be adapting to the new regulations and mentally preparing for any initial challenges.
2nd - Ollie Bearman: The Speedster
Bearman's season was a tale of two halves. The first half saw him make mistakes, such as crashing under red flag conditions at Silverstone, which led to inconsistent results. However, he turned things around during the August break, returning as a tidier and more consistent driver. His halo result of fourth in Mexico was a highlight, backed by strong performances, including a ninth-place finish in Singapore.
The Next Step:
Bearman knows that his performance in his second season with Haas could determine his future with Ferrari. He needs to build on his progress and become even more consistent, especially if he wants to leap into a Ferrari seat if one becomes available. Consistency and outstanding performances are key to making this dream a reality.
3rd - Kimi Antonelli: The Rising Mercedes Star
Antonelli faced a tough challenge in his first season, measured against the outstanding George Russell. Despite the hype, he showed his qualities in a year divided into three parts. The first third was erratic, with flashes of pace, but he struggled to maintain consistency. However, he proved to be a quick learner, turning things around quickly.
The middle part of the season was affected by Mercedes' rear suspension upgrade, which created instability and hindered his attacking style. But Antonelli adapted and became more consistent towards the end, even outperforming Russell at Interlagos.
The Future Challenge:
Antonelli's rollercoaster first year was expected given his youth and inexperience. In 2026, he must aim to be more consistently close to Russell and, ideally, finish ahead of him more often. It's a tall order, but with Mercedes' backing as a future world champion, he needs to showcase his spark and potential.
4th - Gabriel Bortoleto: The Consistent Performer
Bortoleto had a strong first year, making a big impression and standing out as the standout rookie in many seasons. However, his form became erratic after the August break, and he struggled to convert his underlying performance into consistent results.
He only scored points in two of the final ten events, with mistakes in Brazil and Las Vegas. Qualifying became a challenge, and he often found himself just outside the cutoff.
The Road Ahead:
Bortoleto's underlying speed and ability to deliver good race weekends are undeniable. In 2026, he needs to improve his strike rate and reassert himself over teammate Nico Hulkenberg. If Audi has a strong start, it could become an attractive destination, and Bortoleto must ensure he remains the team's lynchpin.
5th - Franco Colapinto: The Flash of Speed
Colapinto, like Bearman, is classified as a rookie due to his part-campaign in 2024. Starting the season with no pre-season testing and a late start in an uncompetitive Alpine car, it was always going to be an uphill battle.
His first seven outings were inconsistent, but he showed glimpses of his potential, especially from Hungary onwards, where he made decent progress and often matched Gasly's pace.
The Opportunity Knocks:
In 2026, Colapinto has the chance to prove himself in a full F1 season with pre-season testing. He needs to settle any doubts about his future by delivering strong results relative to teammate Pierre Gasly early on. While he has shown flashes of speed and confidence, he risks being seen primarily as a sponsorship avenue. By delivering his best work, he can change this narrative.
6th - Jack Doohan: The Marked Man
Doohan faced an almost impossible task from the start, with Flavio Briatore eyeing Colapinto's seat and potential sponsorship. Despite this, he showed promising underlying speed, especially when compared to Gasly.
While he had a few collisions, including a painful shunt in Suzuka, his early promise warranted a longer run in the car. However, his limited opportunities make it difficult to rank him any higher.
The Comeback Trail:
Doohan is set to race for Kondo Racing in Super Formula next season. This highly competitive and unfamiliar championship presents an opportunity to remind everyone of his true performance level. If he can help revive the team's fortunes and showcase his talent, it could reignite his F1 career.
And there you have it! These rookies have the potential to write their own stories in the world of Formula 1. Who will rise to the top and become the stars of tomorrow? The stage is set, and the journey begins in 2026. What do you think? Feel free to share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
