After 12 rounds of the 2025 Formula 1 season, the battle for the Drivers’ Championship is intensifying, with Oscar Piastri holding a narrow eight-point advantage over Lando Norris. As the 2025 F1 midseason driver standings draw attention, teams and fans alike are assessing shifts in momentum and strategic moves shaping the title race halfway through the year.
Key Developments at Red Bull and Team Dynamics Across the Grid
Laurent Mekies has taken on the role of Red Bull’s Team Principal, facing the challenge of reigniting Yuki Tsunoda’s performance while addressing issues concerning their second car. Meanwhile, Lando Norris enters the second half with strong momentum, having won the latest two races, which has heated up the contest with his teammate, Piastri. At the same time, Sauber has shown impressive progress by outscoring Red Bull over the past four rounds, positioning themselves as contenders for fifth place in the Constructors’ Championship.
Prospects for Ferrari, Mercedes, and Drivers to Watch
The ongoing performances of drivers such as George Russell will be critical as the season progresses, especially with Ferrari and Mercedes seeking to increase their number of race wins. The rivalry between Piastri and Norris is expected to remain a major storyline, influencing team strategies and driver motivation throughout the remainder of the season.
Implications for the Championship’s Second Half
The developments during the opening 12 races have set the scene for an exciting second half of 2025, with significant repercussions for driver contracts and team standings. Observers should keep an eye on leadership changes within teams and driver performances as these factors will likely determine the outcome of both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why is 17 banned in F1?
A. In Formula 1, only number 17 has been officially retired. This decision honors the late Jules Bianchi, who used this number. Bianchi experienced a tragic crash during the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix while driving with that number.
Q. Which F1 driver has ADHD?
A. Lewis Hamilton, born in 1985, is a British Formula One driver currently racing for Mercedes. He previously drove for McLaren. Hamilton openly talks about his experiences with ADHD and shares his various interests and hobbies.
Q. Is number 69 allowed in F1?
A. Drivers can pick any number from 0 to 99 for their car, except number 1. Only the World Drivers’ Champion can choose to use number 1, but it’s not mandatory for them.
Q. What F1 drivers have ADHD?
A. Lewis Hamilton, born in 1985, is a British race car driver in Formula One. He currently races for Mercedes and previously raced for McLaren. Hamilton openly talks about his experiences with ADHD and explores his varied interests and hobbies.