The 2025 Formula 1 season will kick off on 16 March in Melbourne, as confirmed by F1 and the FIA, eschewing the usual opener in Bahrain due to the coinciding period of Ramadan.
In the words of FIA President Mohammed ben Sulayem, the “regionalisation of events” greatly enhances the “health and wellbeing of travelling staff.” The 24-race schedule remains basically consistent with previous years, but several issues remain unresolved as the excitement builds.
Journalist Tobias Gruner from Auto Motor und Sport highlights that the location for pre-season testing is still up in the air. “It has not yet been decided where the pre-season testing will take place,” reports Gruner. He suggests that while Bahrain remains eager to host the pre-season tests at Sakhir in February, a move to southern Europe could prove more economical. However, the consistent weather in Bahrain offers advantages, though logistical challenges concerning the availability of spare parts could complicate matters.
The assignment of the ‘sprint’ weekend format to specific venues is another unresolved issue, with discussions ongoing between F1 management and race promoters. Gruner notes, “F1 authorities are still in negotiations with the individual race promoters.” The outcome is likely to favour those willing to invest more for the added spectacle. “As always, the winners will be those races that are willing to pay the biggest premium for the additional action,” he adds.
GMM
