F1 2025 Predictions: Hits and Misses? Verstappen, Leclerc, Piastri and more

Formula 1 Predictions: Mid-Season Analysis

As in most sports, Formula 1 is a spectacle of analysis and bold predictions. At the beginning of the 2025 season, the excitement was palpable given the unpredictable nature of the championship. Now, after the August break, it’s a good time to evaluate these predictions and see how they have materialized.

Verstappen and his Future at Red Bull

Original prediction: “If Red Bull’s problems in 2024 extend to 2025, or if doubts grow about the partnership with Ford, other teams will smell blood… Max Verstappen could see the perfect moment for a change of scenery, even if he has to make a move similar to Lewis Hamilton’s and sign for a season or two further on. Stay tuned.” Analysis: Although the prediction was incorrect, the central idea was accurate. Verstappen’s future dominated much of the period before the summer break due to the reasons stated: Toto Wolff, head of Mercedes, saw the opportunity to attract the Dutch driver, but the possibilities for 2026 were never so high. In addition, a clause in his contract allowed him to leave if he was fourth, not third, in the drivers’ championship. This prediction can be considered closed. The idea of Verstappen’s exit will quickly resurface if Red Bull shows itself significantly off the pace at the beginning of the new cycle of regulations.

Leclerc vs. Hamilton: Who Will Win More Races?

Original prediction: “The notion that Hamilton has lost his level in recent years is unfounded. He should win many races for Ferrari, but a slow start compared to Charles Leclerc seems a fair prediction, given the situation of both drivers in their first year as teammates”.

Alofoke Deportes

Analysis: It depends on how sprint races are classified. Hamilton won one at the beginning of the season, but neither he nor Leclerc have achieved victories in a Grand Prix this year. Ferrari, with a dream team of drivers, has not met expectations. Leclerc has been superior, while Hamilton has shown frustration. It seems difficult for Ferrari to win multiple races before the end of the year. If they did, the prediction would still be valid; Leclerc seems more prepared to capitalize if Ferrari competes with McLaren after the break.

Piastri Leads the Championship

Original prediction: “If the serene and composed Oscar Piastri can solve his inconsistency problem, expect to see the exciting Australian highlighting his credentials as a champion-pedigree driver.” Analysis: Spot on. Piastri arrived at the break with a nine-point lead over Lando Norris and has proven to be a potential champion. The prediction was bold considering the initial expectation. Norris was the favorite, but Piastri has shone, while Norris’s mistakes have been more evident. Despite Norris’s improvement, it’s hard not to bet on Piastri at the end of the season.

Alonso and the Podium with Aston Martin

Original prediction: “We don’t expect Aston Martin to rise drastically in the standings, but the leading group has converged, and opportunities could arise if the British team can take a step forward. If that happens, Fernando Alonso is exactly the man you want in the cockpit.” Analysis: Alonso has not managed to get on the podium. Aston Martin has been in the middle of the competition, far from the four leading teams. A significant change after the break seems unlikely. Stroll’s technical team is focused on 2026.

Would a Rookie Win a Race?

Original prediction: “If Mercedes can place its car in the position needed to win, Kimi Antonelli seems like the kind of special talent who could make a name for himself immediately. Then there’s someone who, officially, is a rookie: Liam Lawson from Red Bull.” Analysis: The premise changed rapidly. Lawson was relegated to the junior team. Antonelli has shown incredible flashes, but Mercedes’ only victory was for George Russell, where Antonelli achieved his first podium. With Lawson at Racing Bulls, Antonelli is the only hope for this prediction to come true.