Formula 1’s rookie class of 2025 had a memorable and tumultuous start to their full seasons at the Australian Grand Prix. The six new drivers: Kimi Antonelli, Liam Lawson, Isack Hadjar, Jack Doohan, Oliver Bearman, and Gabriel Bortoleto faced a variety of challenges, including crashes, recovery efforts, and impressive performances. The first race of the season left a lasting impression, and the rookies will certainly be hoping for a smoother experience in China this weekend.
Kimi Antonelli: The Rising Star
Qualification: 16th
Race Finish: 4th
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, the youngest of the 2025 rookie class at just 18 years old, was under heavy scrutiny heading into his F1 debut. Despite a challenging qualifying session that saw him start in 16th place, Antonelli fought through the rain-soaked race to finish in an impressive fourth place. His performance stood out as he showcased composure under pressure and impressive overtaking skills, ultimately becoming the youngest driver to score points in his debut race.
What Antonelli said: “I was happy with how we managed everything from start to finish. Coming home P4 from P16 is really positive.”
What Mercedes boss Toto Wolff said: “We always knew the potential. He showed his maturity and ability to perform under pressure.”
Liam Lawson: A Challenging Weekend
Qualification: 18th
Race Finish: DNF (Crash)
Liam Lawson, competing for Red Bull, faced a challenging weekend with a series of setbacks. After struggling with pace during practice and qualifying 18th, Lawson’s race was further complicated by a pit-lane start and a gamble to stay out on slick tires in wet conditions. Unfortunately, the gamble didn’t pay off, and Lawson ended up crashing out of the race. Despite the disappointing result, Red Bull team principal Christian Horner highlighted Lawson’s resilience and his fast lap times in dry conditions as positives.
What Lawson said: “This weekend was pretty terrible, we struggled with the car. It nearly worked but wasn’t to be.”
What Horner said: “It was a difficult weekend, but his pace in the dry was impressive.”
Isack Hadjar: Heartbreak After a Strong Weekend
Qualification: 11th
Race Finish: DNS (Crash)
Isack Hadjar, making his F1 debut with Racing Bulls, showed promise during the weekend, qualifying in 11th place and nearly making it to Q3. However, his race came to a heartbreaking end before it even started. On the formation lap, Hadjar spun out, leading to an emotional moment as he expressed his disappointment. Despite the early exit, Hadjar’s performance during the weekend was praised by his team, who remain supportive of the young driver.
What Hadjar said: “I just lost the rear end of the car. It’s unsavable in these conditions. I’m sorry for the team right now.”
What Racing Bulls boss Laurent Mekies said: “Isack had a strong weekend until the tricky conditions of the race. He’ll have full team support.”
A Rollercoaster Start for F1’s Newest Drivers
The Australian Grand Prix marked a significant turning point for the rookies of 2025, with some shining under pressure while others struggled with the challenges that F1 presents. As they head into the next race in China, it’s clear that the road ahead will be filled with highs and lows as they continue to grow and adapt to the fast-paced world of Formula 1.
