The excitement of the 2025 Formula 1 season has kicked off with the Australian Grand Prix held on March 15-16 at the iconic Albert Park Circuit. This thrilling opener marks the beginning of what promises to be one of the most competitive years for the sport, featuring 24 races across five continents and the highly anticipated return of the Chinese Grand Prix, absent since 2019.
The weekend unfolded under sweltering Australian sun, drawing F1 fans and pit crews alike to Melbourne. Among the crowd was seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, who now makes his debut with Ferrari. Hamilton's transition from Mercedes has garnered significant attention, but the competitive spirit of F1 means he faces stiff opposition from rivals like Max Verstappen. With the season underway, Verstappen seeks to secure his fifth consecutive Driver's Championship, intensifying the usual fervor surrounding the races.
For fans eager to watch the action, Sky Sports F1 remains the primary broadcaster for viewers in the UK. Multiple viewing options exist: from full season packages to one-off day passes, catering to different preferences. Sky offers several affordable plans—starting from £49 per month for the Sky Glass Gen 2 TV package to £14.99 for the NOW Sky Sports Day membership, which allows fans to dip their toes for just one event.
But the season doesn’t just hinge on the races themselves. Amid the action, TAG Heuer has made its return as Formula 1's official timekeeper, taking over from Rolex after holding the position since 2013. The launch of TAG Heuer coincided perfectly with the Australian Grand Prix, which saw spectacles on and off the track.
Antoine Pin, CEO of TAG Heuer, expressed their excitement, stating, “We thought it was a great moment to show our iconic pieces like the Formula 1. Watches made our history and are part of our history.” The company marked its return with giant replicas of its TAG Heuer Formula 1 watch, standing as reminders of the brand's deep-rooted connections to motorsports.
For those new to the sport or unfamiliar with its history, TAG Heuer has been associated with Formula 1 since 1969 when it became the first luxury watchmaker to sponsor a driver and place its logo on the cars. The legacy continues, drawing attention not only for its timepieces but also for contributing to the advancement of motorsport as we know it today. “It’s more than just sponsorship; it’s about timekeeping trust,” underscored Andrew McUtchen, founder of Time+Tide Watches.
At the Grand Prix itself, the action was nothing short of electrifying. Lando Norris claimed victory, completing the race at P1, with Verstappen finishing closely behind at P2. Verstappen, who sported his customized TAG Heuer Monaco split-seconds chronograph—a watch celebrated for its ability to time multiple events simultaneously—shared his appreciation for the brand, stating, “TAG Heuer was linked to motorsports... it’s always been linked.”
Meanwhile, teammate Liam Lawson, who also wore TAG's new Formula 1 Chronograph during the event, made waves not only for his racing skills but also his unique sense of style. The young Kiwi driver showcased his individuality as he embraced elements one may not frequently associate with Formula 1 racers, remarking, “I try to be a little bit unique... not the same as everybody else.”
Lawson’s beginnings with the brand are heartwarming; he received his first TAG Heuer Carrera watch as a gift around five or six years old, igniting his passion for timepieces. “Growing up... it completely changed my view,” he reminisced. His narrative relates to the brand’s strategy—targeting passionate fans who resonate with its values.
Despite Lawson’s thrilling entry, not everything went smoothly. He faced disappointment when he crashed out during the race. Nevertheless, the action-packed race and lively atmosphere signified the fresh energy surrounding this year’s season.
At the heart of Melbourne's racing scene, whether it’s the sight of crowded pit lanes, the sound of roaring engines, or the buzz of brands like TAG Heuer making bold comebacks, the feeling was unmistakably vibrant. With anticipation high for each of the remaining races, including the subsequent Grand Prix scheduled for March 21-23 in Shanghai, fans are primed for what lies ahead.
The 2025 F1 calendar is remarkable not only for its depth but also for its iconic locations, with notable races set to take place at Suzuka, Monaco, and Silverstone throughout the season. The driver’s championship race is already heating up with fierce competitors like Lando Norris from McLaren and Hamilton, as the favorites for the Constructors' Championship, solidifying the rivalries formed over the years.
The first few weekends have set the stage for what could become one of the sport's most memorable years, where every race offers new stories ripe with drama and excitement. With fans on the edges of their seats, the world will undoubtedly be captivated by the twists and turns of the 2025 Formula 1 season.
