The wait is over as the new Formula 1 season kicks off with the Australian Grand Prix, slated for Sunday morning, March 16, 2025, at 5:00 AM CET. This year's race marks the beginning of 24 thrilling races, with drivers competing not just for glory, but also for the prestigious World Championship points.
Taking place at the Albert Park Circuit, Melbourne, the race is highly anticipated by fans eager to see how the season will start. Lando Norris, known for his impressive performances last year where he clinched the runner-up spot for the championship, is beginning the race from pole position. His McLaren vehicle has shown promising performance during practice, with Norris exclaiming over the team radio, "This is an incredible car!" excitedly anticipating the race from the front.
Norris will share the front row with Oscar Piastri, another McLaren driver, adding to the intrigue of the team’s performance. Max Verstappen, the defending champion from the last four seasons, will start just behind them in third place, keeping the championship race tight and competitive.
One of the biggest stories of the race involves Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time world champion, who has recently switched from Mercedes to Ferrari. Hamilton expressed uncertainty about driving his new car under wet conditions, stating, "I've never driven the car in the rain before. I don't even know the rain settings," hinting at potential challenges as rain is predicted during the race.
The only German driver at the start is Nico Hülkenberg, who will roll off from 17th place after struggling during qualifying.
Fans will need to wake up early to catch the action live, but the broadcast situation has been tricky. For fans wanting to watch every session of the season live, Sky has secured exclusive rights for 2025, covering all practice sessions, qualifications, sprints, and races. Meanwhile, RTL will broadcast just seven races throughout the season on free-to-air television but will not cover the Australian GP live, focusing instead on the upcoming GP of China on March 23, 2025.
This year’s race at the Albert Park Circuit has been previously recognized for its 14 turns across 5.279 kilometers, wrapping around its scenic lake. Over the course of the race, drivers will navigate this challenging track 58 times, totaling 305.992 kilometers.
Following the Australian GP, the next stop on the 2025 Formula 1 calendar is the GP of China on March 23, where racing enthusiasts are sure to turn their attention as teams and drivers continue to fight for higher standings early on in the season.
Fans are reminded they can follow the races through various channels, including Sky Go, WOW for streaming options, and ORF1 for viewers across Austria. With such viewing options, Formula 1 aficionados have plenty of platforms to choose from to follow their favorite teams and drivers.
It will be fascinating to see how this new season progresses and whether Norris can turn his pole position fill results to race victory, or if Max Verstappen can retain dominance once again. Fans can expect fierce competition not only among seasoned drivers but also new entrants, making this season of Formula 1 one to watch with bated breath.