So much for a Quiet IndyCar Offseason!

Tell me why I Don’t like Monday’s again?

 

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again. No Fenders isn’t a Breaking News Blogsite Y’all! As where’s ‘Ol Foghorn Leghorn, I Say, I Say?

 

As we know, the 2025 IndyCar Silly Season had incredulously ramped-up during the final stretch of this year’s season, with DJ WillyP’s future being the major domino…

 

On Monday, September 2nd, it was confirmed that Will Power had departed Team Penske after 17 seasons. Netting multiple accolades driving for El Capitano’, including the bulk of His 45 wins and career leading 71 pole positions. Along with two IndyCar Championships and the 2018 Borg Warner trophy.

 

What I still cannot comprehend is Power replacing Colton Herta at Andretti Global, which was announced the following day. As I don’t “See” how Colton slots into a Cadillac F1 seat for 2027,after a year in Formula 2? Especially since both Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez are on multi-year deals.

 

Although I didn’t “See” Herta being announced as Cadillac’s Test driver for next year. While it would make sense if He does race Formula 2 next season, since they compete on the majority of Formula 1 race circuits…

 

Naturally, David Malukas will replace Power in the No. 12. While scuttlebutt suggests that its just a formality before Rinus VeeKay takes Malukas’s seat at A.J. Foyt Enterprises. Since it was confirmed the Dutchman had left Dale Coyne Racing the same day.

 

Hmm? I’m guessing that VeeKay’s “insurance” for if Malukas fails to perform at Penske? Arse-suming both on standard “Multi-year”, ergo two year contracts. Naturally with many clauses included…

 

This leaves Coyne with most likely two empty seats, with its No. 18 entry’s “short-list” including Romain Grosjean and Linus Lundqvist. For which it sounds like the seat’s tipped in Grosjean’s favour…

 

While rumours suggest that Andretti Global will pay for reigning Indy NXT Champion Dennis Haugger to “Play” aboard DCR’s No. 51 for a year. Before Arse-sumedly sliding into Marcus Ericsson’s #28seat for 2027.

 

Thus, if All of that conjecture happens, which most seems certain now. That leads us with just two, three, or possibly four seats remaining for next year.

 

As I’m guessing both Juncos Hollinger Racing seats are available. And ditto for the No. 30 Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing seat, for the right price. Along with the No. 83 Prema Racing seat, provided Prema remains on the grid next year?

 

As the $64k question now, is which driver from what series can bring the necessary budget to land one of the few, remaining IndyCar seats for 2026. Since even Dale Coyne has said He’ll have His two car line-up announced by Halloween. Be still my beating Heart!

 

And there Yuhs have it. Or at least what I’d gleamed from last weeks announcements, with more to come… 

More Silly Season Silliness?

As how many “licks” does it take to get to the center of the Will Power Sweepstakes?

 

Yeah, most likely this is pure fantasy. Having already been confirmed?

 

Monday morning, following the Milwaukee IndyCar race. I “read”, err listened to Indianapolis Star’s Motorsports Beat reporter Nathan Browne’s story upon where did Will Power stand for next year? Along with the rumour of Colton Herta going to Formula 2 to garner the necessary points for His FIA Super Licence, Huh?

 

Not to mention claiming Graham Rahal told Conor Daly on Daly’s Podcast that He thought DJ willyP’ would land at Andretti Global next year, not at RLLR.

 

Also mentioning that Power had spoken again with El Capitano’, nee Roger Penske. But still didn’t know His future with the team He’s driven for 17 years. Although I immediately pondered to Thyself; didn’t know, or couldn’t Say publicly?

 

Kicking virtual tyres’, here’s what seems all wrong with this speculation to Mwah. Which once again possibly has become a moot topic while I’ve been away from Zed Keyboard, Eh?

 

First off, if Cadillac signs both Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas for 2026 as rumoured; I cannot “See” why they wouldn’t do so only on a multi-year contract. With Mick Schumacher rumoured being the team’s Test and Reserve Driver, making things awfully crowded for Herta’s potential arrival.

 

As would Colton be willing to race in F2 for multiple seasons with the hopes of scoring the requisite points needed for His FIA Super Licence? As there’s no guarantee’s He’ll amass the needed points racing in the “Junior” formula.

 

Whilst perhaps Schumacher moves from Alpine to Cadillac in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) next year also? With Fernando Alonso throwing Aston Martin F1 Reserve Felipe Drugovich’s name into the mix.

 

For Humour, say Power does go to Andretti and Herta goes to Formula 2. What does Andretti Global do with its reigning Indy NXT Champion Dennis Hauger?

 

Do they “loan” Him out to A.J. Foyt Enterprises on a one year Dealio’, a la Kyle Kirkwood? Since Foyt’s now got a technical alliance with Team Penske, does that cause aProblema?

 

And what happens if Foyt looses the funding for its second car, which would reportedly happen if David Malukas replaces Power at Team Penske, if I’m reading the proverbial tea leaves correctly…

 

While we also don’t know about Sexton Properties funding its No. 14 entry next year?

 

And I say one year deal, since then Hauger could slot into the No. 28 seat of Marcus Ericsson after His contract expires next year. Or does Hauger go to Juncos Hollinger Racing on a similar situation?

 

But like Rinus VeeKay mused, and presumably the other drivers on the “market”. They’re All holding their collective breaths to see where Power goes next year?

 

While it would really be nice to see Linus Lundqvist get a second chance somewhere next year.

 

Along with Racer.com finally having fixed its Goobered website and my screen reader “Zoey, the Princess Warrior” will be able to read its story titles once again? Meaning I can actually find out what’s going on in der Wurld de Motorsporten, Ja-Ja!

 

Naturally, I first listened to Marshall Pruett’s The Week in IndyCar Podcast. Where He chortled amusedly over the notion of Colton Herta going to F2, Saying that would be a fun Headline to write…

 

Then the day after scribblin’ this riveting No Fenders prose. Cadillac confirmed both Bottas and Perez as the team’s two race drivers, with both indeed on multi-year contracts. Which I’d Arse-sume means a minimum of two years, and perhaps options for a third.

 

Meaning I’ll take Hearta “Off the Board” for going anywhere next year. And if Power’s indeed gone from Penske? I still think His best option is the #30 RLLR entry. Guessing Graham cannot say anything publicly due to contractual clauses, but DeFrancesco isn’t exactly overperforming.

 

Or I suppose there’s the unlikely possibility of Malukas and Power just simply doing a seat swap? As I really cannot “See” Power wanting to drive for JHR.

 

And that’s before we even get to the other myriad ‘O rumours, scuttlebutt or just pure conjecture! Like what happens to Prema Racing over the Off-season? Whilst Marshall Pruett’s fairly confident we won’t see Robert Shwartzman back next year. Who’s reportedly miserable Stateside and seeking return to Europe…

Silly Season with A Twist

And were not talking about Half Gainers, 360’s or Double Back Flips Here!

 

Suppose now that we’re well past the halfway mark of this year’s IndyCar season. Which it still Ain’t right that the season will wrap-up on Friggin’ August 31st! So those Clods with helmets and shoulder pads can collide with each other on the Gridiron, Spew!

 

And it being the first of August, perhaps some of this will now be superfluous? Although when I hastily began scrbblin’ this in mid-July. I felt there were five teams for certain with no driver moves for next year. With Arrow McLaren, Chip Ganassi Racing, Ed Carpenter Racing, Meyer Shank Racing and Prema Racing all seeming to keep their current lineups.

 

Whilst that means that the other six teams, i.e.; A.J. Foyt Enterprises, Andretti Global, Dale Coyne Racing, Juncos Hollinger Racing, Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing and Team Penske had possible “vacancies” or potential driver moves occurring.

 

Although I’m still flying Blind, thanks to Racer’s website not being screen reader compliant, Urgh! Forcing me to rely upon other new sources…

 

With the proclivity towards being obvious. The biggest potential Domino we’re waiting to find out what happens is DJ WillyP’, aka will Power of Team Penske, whose contract expires this year.

 

Know that scuttlebutt suggests that David Malukas will be His replacement, whom I’m a huge fan of. But I have to say I feel that my Numero Doce IndyCar driver has made far too many self inflicted mistakes this year driving for A.J. Foyt Enterprises. And that another season of “polishing” would be well suited for the Chicago lad.

 

Although somehow I doubt that Power’s looking for just a single year contract extension with Penske. While I know that David Land claimed there’s another team that’s given Power an offer. At least that’s what I think He said…

 

The other “big” name IndyCar team whose lineup seems unsettled right now is Andretti Global, with the possibility of having two thirds of its seats available? Since its long been Arse-sumed that Colton Herta will be the young American flying the flag for Cadillac when it enters formula 1 next year.

 

Although I tend to think the scuttlebutt is that Herta needs to finish fourth this season in order to secure the mandatory FIA Super Licence. Which currently being mired in ninth, with one podium prior to Toronto doesn’t help this cause.

 

Although Colton did start from pole in Toronto and finished fourth, when He most likely should have won. Except for the raft of cautions causing a million different strategies! With Herta moving up to eighth in the title fight.

 

Then finishing third at Laguna Seca saw Him move forward another spot to seventh, just two points behind sixth place Felix Rosenqvist. And just 44 markers behind fifth place Christian Lundgaard, with three races remaining…

 

And then there’s the speculation over how poor Marcus Ericsson’s sophomore campaign and time overall with Andretti Global is going, with the possibility of the affable Swede’s contract’s final year being bought out?

 

Of course the obvious choice for one of these seats would be Indy NXT rookie standout Dennis Hauger, who’s pretty much crushed the competition this year! With the exception of Andretti Global rookie teammate Lochie Hughes keeping Him Honest, when they’re not busy colliding!

 

As you’d have to think that Andretti Global is keen to keep both of these emerging talents in the “Family”. Even though there doesn’t seem to be that many opportunities for both of them in IndyCar next year.

 

The only other Indy NXT drivers possibly ready to graduate to IndyCar are Caio Collet and possibly Myles Rowe. Although both seem a stretch, with Rowe probably needing another year in the series.

 

Although Collet said don’t forget about me wit a clean sweep weekend in Monterey! Winning both Indy NXT races from pole and leading wire-to-wire.

 

Meanwhile, Portland’s Josh Pierson, whom I have no idea if He’s still an Ed Carpenter Racing (ECR) Development Driver? But He seems somewhat off the pace, and now in His third year in Indy NXT, it seems unlikely He’ll progress to IndyCar…

 

Although He did have a breakout weekend at Laguna Seca. As according to IndyCar’s Curt Cavin, Pierson netted His first two podium finishes after 32 races. Finishing third Saturday, and second on Sunday.

 

Interestingly, across thoust Gory Puddle, Netherlands Richard Verschoor led the FIA Formula 2 Championship points standings by six markers over American Jack Crawford: 122-116. As both drivers have three wins to date. Whilst Ireland’s Alex Dunne is in third place with 108 points; prior to Round 9 at Spa-Francorchamps.

 

As both Verschoor and Crawford dropped one position in the standings after netting zero points in Belgium. With Italy’s Leonardo Fornaroli vaulting into the lead after winning the Sprint race at Spa. Now on 125 points, while Dunne remains fourth, albeit just two markers adrift of Crawford.

 

Dunne, a rookie, is a member of the McLaren Driver Development Programme, while Crawford serves as a reserve driver for the Aston Martin’s F1 team, and is part of its Driver Development programme.

 

Now, I’m not suggesting this will happen, since it seems fairly far fetched to Mwah, But. What if the FIA refused Herta’s Super Licence application? And 20 year old Yank’ Crawford, whose netted five wins in F2 wins the Formula 2 title in His third season. Could Cadillac opt for Crawford instead?

 

Yet how could the FIA say that Herta’s not “qualified” for a Super Licence or worthy of racing in Formula 1?

 

As only time, and money will tell. Although as Sonny Hayes says in F1 the Movie, “Its Not about the Money!” Cough, cough…

 

Naturally, after I’d finished scribbling these riveting thoughts. The day after, ESPN Online Motorsports Headlines published a story about Jack Crawford saying it would be a major mistake if Cadillac overlooked Him if He wins the F2 title. Noting in the article that its His Manager’s job to keep Cad-Oh-Lac’ in the frame over Him…

 

While in typical No Nonsense Pato Who? Machismo style, O’Ward likened rumours of His moving to Cadillac F1 akin to Fernando Alonso and Taylor Swift “Hooking Up” last year, which we all know never happened. Nice one Pato!

 

As would IndyCar really be on the verge of going to Mexico City without the sport’s most popular driver? 

Prema Racing makes it’s Indianapolis 500 debut

But will both of it’s Bowtie’ entries make the Show?

 

Those of Y’all following IndyCar closely, will already know of this year’s newest IndyCar team’s extensive, and impressive pedigree. As Prema Racing is an European powerhouse in the various Feeder Series, reportedly having fielded 28 drivers in nine championships for 2023.

 

Prema is the reigning Teams Champion in the FIA’s Formula 3 championship, where it fields three entries. The Nos. 1-3 for Italy’s Brando Badoer, Mexico’s Noel Leon and the totally unheard of Yank’ Ugo Ugochukwu.

 

As Brando’s name was instantly familiar to Mwah. As yes, His father is former F1 driver Luca Badoer. Whilst I’m Arse-sumeing that Montoyer’ feller’s surname below needs no explanation, Ci?

 

Prema also has Sebastian Montoya and Gabriele Mini racing for them in Formula 2. The FIA’s final rung on it’s ladder to thee pinnacle ‘O motorsports, aka Formula 1.

 

Prema has won far too many championships to bother typing all of them here. But to note just some of the accomplished driving talent over the years, here’s some that stand out to me.

 

Current Prema Racing IndyCar Sporting Director Ryan Briscoe won the 2001 Italian Formula Renault and 2003 Formula 3 Euro Series titles. K-Squared’, aka Kamui Kobayashi claimed the 2005 Italian Formula Renault and Eurocup Formula Renault 2.0 Championships.

 

Esteban Ocon, Felix Rosenqvist, Lance Stroll and Mick Schumacher won the 2014-2015-2016-2018 FIA Formula 3 European Championship crown respectively.

 

Andrea Kimi Antonelli won both the 2022 Italian and ADAC Formula 4 titles. And  Stroll and Marcus Armstrong won the Italian F4 title with Prema in 2014 and 2017 respectively.

 

Pierre Gasly won the 2016 GP2 title, today’s Formula 2 Championship. Which the former Italian “Powerteam” has also won with Charles Leclerc in 2017, Mick Schumacher in 2020 and Oscar Piastri in 2021.

 

Yet cynics will be quick to point out that European Feeder Series success doesn’t guarantee you anything in IndyCar, with Carlin’s quick demise being the catalyst to this point. Remember then Y’all with Max Chilton and Charlie Kimball?

 

While I won’t lament over the legendous’ engineer Michael Cannon’s hasty exodus prior to the season’s start after signing on as Prema’s Head of Engineering.

 

Prema secured what appears for now to be the final two IndyCar engine leases with Chevrolet, even though they’re currently the only non charter team in IndyCar. Having inked two of it’s former ladder drivers to race for them Stateside. Presumably on de riggour multi-year contracts…

 

Callum Ilott is the team leader, since we all know about His struggles with Juncos Hollinger Racing, (JHR) where Ilott made His IndyCar debut at season’s end in 2021 with a three race “warm-up” on the West coast.

 

Ilott finished fourth overall for Prema Powerteam in the 2017 Formula 3 European championship with six wins and six podium finishes. He was also a Ferrari Driver Academy member between 2017-2021. Along with being both Scuderia Ferrari and Alfa Romeo Racin’s reserve driver in Formula 1. Making His (Free Practice) FP1 debut at the 2021 Portuguese Grand Prix for Alfa Romeo.

 

Ilott finished Vice Champion, Err runner-up to that year’s Formula 2 Champion, Mick Schumacher in 2020. Before gravitating to IndyCar, making His debut for JHR at Portland late 2021.

 

It all went pear-shaped for Ilott at JHR in April, 2023 at the IMS open test, where the team didn’t believe the Englishman telling them the chassis had a major, diabolical flaw. Which the team finally relented and reluctantly built Him another Dallara DW12 chassis, with Ilott vindicating Himself with a 12th place finish in that year’s Indianapolis 500.

 

As Ilott has contested three races at Mother Speedway, with a best finish of 11th last year at Arrow Mclaren. And teamed with His former JHR race engineer, will hopefully shepherd both Prema cars into this year’s Indy 500.

 

Israeli born Russian driver Robert Shwartzman is the team’s rookie driver, who first raced for Prema in the 2018 Formula 3 European Championship. The following year, Shwartzman claimed the inaugural FIA Formula 3 Championship title driving for the Prema Powerteam, before graduating to Formula 2.

 

Shwartzman was paired with the next two year Formula 2 Championship winners, i.e.; Mick Schumacher and Oscar Piastri at Prema, before the FIA banned Russian drivers from participating in 2022.

 

Shwartzman, a la Ilott was a Ferrari Driver Academy member, also between 2017-2022, before being dismissed in 2023. Continued to serve as a Ferrari F1 reserve driver that year, before moving to Sports Cars for 2024. Driving the third AF Corse Ferrari 499P Hypercar entry.

 

As the two Prema Racing IndyCar drivers were part of the Ferrari Driver Academy’s 2017 class, which included Enzo Fittipaldi and Marcus Armstrong.

 

Ironically, Shwartzman competed against Ilott in the World Endurance Championship (WEC) last season. With Ilott scoring Porsche’s first, and only to date privateer victory at thee Mighty Spa, aka Six Hours of Spa-Francorchamps. With Ilott driving for Hertz Team Jota last year, which has become the factory Cadillac effort this season in WEC, where le Hamburgular’, aka Sealmeister B’, nee Sebastien Bourdais has replaced Him…

 

Thus, it will be fascinating to see how Prema Racing fares at this year’s 109th running of the Indianapolis 500. If both cars qualify and how their Month of May pans out. For which I hope both drivers make the “Show” and have a successful race outing. 

Japan’s Next Wave?

Although will any of these prospects succeed to the Pinnicle of Motorsport?

 

As my working title was Japanese Drivers Logjam…

 

Japan has a long, storied history with formula 1. As the very first Japanese driver to Enter a international Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) sanctioned race fifty years ago was Hiroshi Fushida, who failed on both of His entries with the uncompetitive Maki Engineering F101 normally aspirated 3.0-liter Ford-Cosworth DFV V-8 racecar.

 

Hiroshi’s Cossie’ lump’ “Done blown Up!” at that year’s Dutch Grand Prix, for which the team didn’t have a spare motor! And then He failed to qualify (DNQ) at the 1975 British Grand Prix.

 

Hiroshi also contested the SCCA’s Can Am and Trans Am series Stateside. And made history alongside countryman Tetsu Ikuzawa, when they became the first two Japanese drivers to compete in the 24 Heurs du Mans. Driving a Mazda  Wankel rotary powered Sigma MS73 (SARD) in the 1973 event.

 

Japan’s first Formula 1 race was the epic 1976 Japanese Grand Prix at Fuji Speedway, where a further four Japanese drivers entered their country’s inaugural Grand Prix; Masahiro Hasemi, Kazuyoshi Hoshino, Masani Kuwashina and Noritake Takahara.

 

Although reputedly Kuwashina’s sponsorship Cheque failed to materialize, scratching Him from competing, i.e. DNS. (Did Not Start) Being replaced by Hans Binder.

 

Whilst Hasemi, Hoshino and Takahara all contested the race, becoming Japan’s first three Formula 1 drivers. Although I’d surmise this accomplishment was totally overshadowed by that year’s Mega’ F1 Drivers championship showdown between Niki Lauda and Jame Hunt, which is wonderfully documented in ‘lil Ronnie Howard’sexcellent Rush movie…

 

Kazuyoshi Hoshino’s nickname was “The Fastest Man in Japan”, which is pretty “Heady” suff!

 

Reportedly there have been 21 Japanese drivers to attempt a Grand Prix to date, with 18 making starts. Which I won’t attempt chronicling! Other than three have stood on the third step of the podium. First Aguri Suzuki in1990. Followed by arguably Japan’s “Greatest” driver Takuma sato in 2004. And finally K-Squared’, aka Kamui Kobayashi in 2012. With Kamui now firmly established as a Sports Car star; including a World Endurance Championship (WEC) title and 24 Heurs du Mans and Rolex 24 wins to His credit.

 

Currently, Yuki Tsunoda is the only Japanese driver competing in Formula 1, entering His fifth season driving for thee ‘lil bullz’, aka Racing Bulls. Which you’d have to say that Tsunoda’s inclusion in Formula 1 is backed by Red Bull’s engine, Err Power Unit (PU) supplier Honda. Even if Honda “withdrew” from full Factory F1 involvement at the end of 2021.

 

Yuki did finish a very respectable fourth overall in FIA Formula 3, and third overall in Formula 2 with Four poles and three wins before graduating to then AlphaTauri in 2021. Yet with Honda becoming Aston Martin’s Werk’s PU supplier beginning next year, the only option I “See” for Tsunoda is becoming one of Aston Martin’s reserve drivers.

 

But Felipe Drugovich, the 2022 FIA F2 champion has been the team’s reserve driver since 2023. And obviously neither Fernando Alonso or Lance Stroll seem intent on departing Formula 1 anytime soon…

 

Ironically, Tsunoda turns 25 one day after Helio Castroneves 50th birthday on May 10th…

 

Ritomo Miyata who turns 26 this August, appears to be Japan’s best bet for joining the F1 Circus in the future. As Miyata will contest His sophomore season of F2 this year driving for ART Grand Prix. (#15) Having finished P19 overall last year for Rodin Motorsport.

 

Ritomo is a member of the Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR) Driver Challenge programme, along with being a multiple title winner. Having won both the Super formula and Super GT Championships in 2023. Along with the 2020 Super Formula Lights and 2016-2017 Japanese Formula 4 titles.

 

Miyata was diagnosed with Autism early in life and is an ardent “gamer”. Having won some 500 iSports races!

 

Thanks to Toyota’s technical partnership with the Haas F1 Team, Miyata tested a Haas VF-23 at Jerez recently. Where race drivers Esteban Ocon and Oliver Bearman ran one day apiece, with Ritomo getting valuable “Seat-time” at the end of each day.

 

Although Miyata’s trajectory seems aimed more for eventual Hypercar duty in the WEC for Toyota, unless a seat on the Formula 1 grid opens up…

 

Although Ayumu Iwasa, who currently competes in Super Formula might have something to say about that . As the 23yr old Red Bull Junior Driver and Honda Formula Dream Project member has already tallied two seasons in formula 2. Finishing fifth and fourth overall respectively between 2022-23. And finished fifth overall last year during His rookie Super Formula campaign.

 

Ayumu helped make “Waves” at last year’s Japanese grand Prix, driving in His first Free Practice outing during FP1. Driving alongside Racing Bulls “teammate” Tsunoda. Having last tested for RB during last year’s Abu Dhabi Young Drivers test.

 

Ryo Hirakawa (Age 31) is a Toyota Werks’ (TGR) FIA World Endurance Championship driver, having won two WEC titles along with the 2022 24 Hours of Le Mans. And was announced this January as an Alpine F1 test and reserve driver.

 

As I’m guessing the latter has something to do with team principal Oliver Oakes and Hitech Racing’s involvement with TGR in it’s Junior Open Wheel Racing categories. As Hitech TGR competes in both the FIA Formula 2 and Formula 3 Championships.

 

Interestingly, and this is purely conjecture on my part. But this arrangement gives Toyota two possible paths to future Formula 1 involvement. But that’s just pure conjecture Folks!

 

Lastly, Kakunoshin Ohta made His IMSA GTP debut at this year’s Rolex 24 as part of Meyer shank Racing’s No. 93 Acura ARX06 entry. As the 25yr old Japanese Sports Car driver will also drive the No. 93 at this year’s Watkins Glen and Indianapolis endurance rounds.

 

Kakunoshin also recently tested for era Motorsports, aboard it’s No. 18 LMP2 entry during the Pre-Sebring 12 Hours test in February. And was slated to ad further LMP2 outing to His busy 2025 schedule.

 

Then naturally, as I was putting this story to bed, word came that indeed Ohta would race for Era Motorsports at both the Sebring 12 Hours and later Road America races in the LMP2 category. With HRC US further cementing it’s “ties” with Era Motorsports in a collabourative effort to promote young Japanese drivers to Sports car racing. As Era has already restored previous Acura Sports Car prototypes for Historic Racing…

 

This is just further speculation. But with HRC US (Honda Racing Corporation) President David Salters recently noting how Honda would like to take it’s Acura GTP racecar to Le Mans, could we see Iwasa or Ohta as part of the drivers lineup? 

Presenting the 2025 Formula 1 Rookies Class

But who’ll come out on top. And who’ll perform best overall in their respective F1 careers?

 

Can the 2023 Formula 1 season really be that long ago? Or is it just due to the immeasurably long 24 Grands Prix calendar? That its hard to remember just two years ago we had four “Fresh Faced” F1 rookies on the grid.

 

Whilst I realize it’s a totally different era, but fifty years ago, there were 18 F1 rookies, including the three who failed to qualify. With a total of 63 drivers attempting to participate that season, Youza!

 

Whilst I’ll freely admit I know very little about any of this quintet ‘O aspiring Formula 1 drivers…

 

Gabriel Bortoleto

Team: Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber

Nationality: Brazilian

Birthplace: Osasco, Sao Paolo

DOB: October 14, 2004; Age: 20

Car No. 5

 

Interestingly, Gabriel’s father is the CEO and co-owner of Brazil’s Stock Car Pro series. Not to mention coming from a wealthy family, with part of their fortunes coming from creating an internet company that merged with Vero in 2023.

 

The family also runs the KTF Racing team in Stock Cars and Karting, and Gabriel’s elder brother Enzo formerly raced in F4 and British F3…

 

Gabriel began Karting at age seven and made His single seater debut in 2020, in the Italian Formula 4 series. Which seems to be one of the main proving grounds for aspiring racers

 

After stints in the Formula Regional European and Formula Asia series, Bortoleto graduated to the FIA formula 3 Championship, driving for Trident in 2023. He got off to a strong start with an early win, and led the championship until the season’s end. Winning the title with two victories in His maiden campaign.

 

For 2024, Gabriel moved up to FIA Formula 2, driving for Invicta Virtuosi Racing, alongside Alpine Academy driver Kush Maini.

 

Gabriel fought all season long vs. Isack Hadjar for the title, scoring His first Feature race win at Austria. And then becoming the first Formula 2 driver to win from last place at Monza.

 

Entering the season finale on Yas Isle, bortoleto led Hajar by 0.5 point! Increased to a four point lead following the Sprint race. Then finishing Vice, Err runner-up on Sunday to claim the title. Becoming only the seventh rookie to win the championship and fourth to do the “double” as a rookie. Following the likes of Charles Leclerc, George Russell and Oscar Piastri.

 

Gabriel joined the McLaren Driver Development Programme between 2023-24 and is under the “tutelage” of A14 Management, owned by Fred Alonso. As McLaren released the Brazilian in order to be signed by Sauber for 2025, before becoming the Audi Werks’ F1 team in 2026.

 

Isack Hadjar

Team: Visa Cash App Racing Bulls F1 Team

Nationality: French

Birthplace: Paris, France

DOB: September 28, 2004; Age: 20

Car No. 6

 

Isack Hadjar was the final driver confirmed for the 2025 F1 season as Liam Lawson’s replacement at thee ‘lil bulls’, aka Racing bulls operation. The French born Algerian driver began Karting at age seven and made His single seater debut in 2019 in the French formula 4 series. Having first raced in the Ginetta Junior Sports car category.

 

The following year Hadjar finished third overall in the French F4 championship with three win, before graduating to the Formula Regional European and Formula Asian series. As Hadjar’s best weekend appropriately came during the Monaco outing, where He scored His first FR European win along with a runner-up finish.

 

Hadjar finished third overall in the 2022 FR Asian series driving for Hitech, before racing in that year’s FIA Formula 3 Championship also with Hitech. Where His season started off with a “Bang at Bahrain”, being declared the winner after Oliver Bearman received a time penalty.

 

Yet Hadjar who was in the title fight didhimself no favours when crashing on the final corner during qualifying in Monza, colliding with Kush Maini in the race and ultimately finishing fourth overall, before moving onto the FIA Formula 2 championship the following year.

 

Continuing with Hitech in Formual 2 where His teammate was Yank’ Jack Crawford, Isack had a typical, difficult rookie season. Finishing 14th  overall in the standings, two points behind Crawford.

 

For 2023, Hadjar switched to Campos Racing where He fought tooth ‘n nail for the championship title vs. Gabriel Bortoleto. Yet once again, the pressure was too great, as Hadjar stalled at the start of the season finale’s final Feature race!

 

As Hadjar had built up a 36 point lead with four wins prior to the Summer’s break before having to settle for vice Champion behind Bortoleto. Yet being a Red bull Junior driver beginning in 2023, it was only natural to promote Him to the Racing Bulls Formula 1 team. And I like His honesty, saying He’s scared of being a formula 1 driver! But expects to compete for reaching Qualie’s Q3 (Top 10) sessions and score points. And is even hopeful of scoring His first podium finish.

 

As this is the rookie F1 driver I know the least about, but have to say I like His bravado, and will be interested to “See” how He fares vs. established teammate Yuki Tsunoda.

 

As the legendous’ Der Helmut, aka Helmut Marco says Isack is fast but impulsive! Whilst Hadjar himself admits He’d like to drive for Red bull one day, but only if merited… 

The F1 rookie most prominently in the Spotlight

But how will He perform under such pressure?

 

Rightly or wrongly, this Italian teenager seems to have the biggest spotlight of our five Formula 1 rookies upon His shoulders this year. Presumably since He’s replacing legendous’ Sir Lewis at the Silver arrows…

 

Andrea Kimi Antonelli

Team: Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team

Nationality: Italian

Birthplace: Bologna, Emilia-Romagna

DOB: August 25, 2006; Age: 18

Car No. 12

 

As I’ve already scribbled above, the youngest driver on the Formula 1 grid for 2025 is also thought to be the most sensational. Nevertheless, the young Italian will also have the most pressure to perform for Mercedes as Lewis Hamilton’s replacement…

 

Andrea or Kimi’s as most are now calling Him, Father Marco is a Sports Car racer in Saloons, winning the 2018 Italian GT championship and currently runs the Family’s AMK Motorsports racing team, which has competed in the Italian F4 championship since 2022.

 

Kimi, like Gabriel Bortoleto, both claim the late Ayrton Senna as their Idol! With Antonelli having drawn inspiration from Senna’s use of the number 12 in formula 1, along with using the number during His stitnt driving for Prema in Junior formulaes.

 

Interestingly, both Antonelli and fellow F1 rookie Jack Doohan requested the No. 12 as their car number, but since Kimi asked first, He got the number ahead of Doohan…

 

Reputedly a family friend gave Antonelli’s father Marco the name Kimi in deference to that Ice Cream eating Kimi Raikkonen. Since Marco was set upon giving His son a boring middle name.

 

Thus, with All of the hyperbole out of the way, let’stake a brief gander at Kimi’s racing “CV”. (career) As Kimi also began competitive Karting at age seven, and was a prodigious Karting talent. Winning too numerous championships to chronicle, along with suffering a broken leg during a wet weather accident.

 

Antonelli was spotted by Giovanni Minardi early on , and quickly signed to Minardi Management. Before winning multiple karting titles driving for Rosberg Racing Academy. Hmm, why does it sound like He was already headed for the pinicle of motorsports so early on, Eh?

 

For 2021, Kimi made His single seater debut in Italian Formula 4 following His 15th birthday, contesting a partial season and finishing a respectable P10 overall.

 

Remaining with Prema Powerteam, Antonelli claimed both the 2022 Italian and ADAC Formula 4 championships along with a Gold Medal in the FIA Motorsports Games. As Kimi dominated the Italian F4 series with a record 13 wins, including six consecutive victories! Then followed that up by claiming the ADAC F4 title. Having amassed 26 wins, 24 poles and 37 podiums in 67 Formula 4 starts, the second most successful in F4 History!

 

The following year, He graduated to the Formula Regional European Championship, where once again He secured another title driving for Prema, along with that year’s inaugural FR Middle East Championship driving for Mumbai Falcons.

 

Thus, Kimi’s “Star” shone brightly! Having secured two titles in Formula 3, the Italian prodigy skipped the FIA formula 3 Championship, Preceding directly to FIA Formula 2 the following year, again with Prema. Where His teammate would be Ferrari Driver Academy member Oliver Bearman.

 

Reportedly Prema initially struggled with the Formula 2 Ground Effects chassis, seeing both drivers get off to a slow start. Kimi scored His maiden F2 win in the wet Silverstone Sprint race, and then clamed a Feature race win at Budapest.

 

Antonelli withdrew from the season finale Abu Dhabi F2 weekend due to illness and finished sixth overall in the championship on the back of His two wins. And then took part in the afternoon session of the post Abu Dhabi F1 Young Drivers test, where naturally He was the fastest rookie.

 

Antonelli was signed as a Mercedes Junior Driver in 2018 at age 12! Making me think of another youngster name Lewis Hamilton’s signing by thee Ronster’, aka Ron Dennis of McLaren fame Wayback’ when…

 

Antonelli got His first taste of Formula 1 machinery in April, 2019 when He drove a Mercedes W12 at the Red bull ring in Spielberg, followed by further private tests at Imola and Spa-francorchamps.

 

The “Kimi” rule, re-allowing 17 year olds to hold FIA Super licence’s, enabled Antonelli to make His Free Practice debut at Monza that fall. Antonelli set the fastest lap time before spinning at Curva Alboreto just ten minutes into the FP1 session, colliding with the tyre barriers in a 52G incident! And then participated in another F1 practice session at Mexico City. Once again incurring damage to His Mercedes chassis upon running over debris and damaging the W15’s floor…

 

Antonelli has been undergoing an extensive testing programme over the winter in preparations for His Formula 1 debut alongside team leader George Russell. And passed His public driving test just six weeks prior to the season opener at Melbourne. As Italians must be at least 18 years old before being eligible for a Drivers licence… 

Presenting the 2025 Formula 1 Senior Member Rookies

Although a total of four Grands Prix Ain’t exactly a large sample size…

 

It has been a very long times since I can recall such an abundance ‘O Formula 1 rookies joining the grid. Which according to my informal archives, last occurred nine seasons ago in 2017. As Pierre Gasly and Lance Stroll remain upon the F1 Grid. Whilst the 2019 and 2023 seasons saw four F1 rookies apiece. With 2019 featuring the top three F2 finishers: Lando Norris, George Russell and Alexander Albon. Whilst 2023 F1 rookies Liam Lawson and Oscar Piastri remain on the grid…

 

Oliver Berman

Team: MoneyGram Haas F1 Team

Nationality: United Kingdom

Birthplace: Havering, London

DOB: May 8, 2005; Age: 19

Car No. 87

 

Believe that “Ollie”, aka Oliver Bearman is still a rookie, albeit having made three starts last season, substituting for Carlos Sainz Jr. at Ferrari and Kevin Magnussen at Haas. As His three Grands Prix starts excluded Him from participating in the Post Abu Dhabi Young Drivers test.

 

Ollie’ began racing Go Karts at age seven, capping a very successful Karting career in 2020, before graduating to Single Seaters.

 

Bearman made His racecar debut in the 2020 ADAC (German) Formula 4 series and scored His maiden win at the Hockenheimring. Later that year He made His debut in the Italian F4 series and also claimed victory at Vallelunga.

 

Twenty Twenty-One was a magical year for Bearman, as the Bloody brit’ dominated the Italian F4 Championship, sweeping the title with eleven wins! And then claimed the German F4 Championship title with a further six victories.

 

The following year, Oliver graduated to the FIA formula 3 Championship, driving for Prema Racing alongside Jack Crawford and Arthur Leclerc. Bearman wound-up third overall and claimed one W’, the Sprint race at thee Mighty Spa, aka Spa-Francorchamps. He also became a Ferrari Academy driver that year.

 

For 2023, Ollie made the step up to FIA Formula 2, continuing with Prema, alongside Mercedes Junior Driver Frederik Vesti. Bearman would claim sixth in the championship with four wins, including an impressive “double” at Baku. Becoming just the fourth F3 rookie to win both Sprint and feature races on the same weekend.

 

Continuing with Prema, now partnered by Mercedes Junior driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Bearman had a disappointing season, finishing 12th overall with three Sprint race wins to His credit.

 

Bearman missed the Jeddah and Baku rounds due to deputizing as reserve driver in F1. First in a last minute call-up for Carlos Sainz Jr. having an emergency appendectomy, where He finished a sensational seventh for Ferrari!

 

Next Bearman scored points again as Kevin Magnussen’s substitute at Azerbaijan, where the Dane’ was serving a one race ban. Finishing P10 for Haas. Then slithered home P12 at Sao Paolo after being given a 10 second penalty for colliding with Williams Franco Colapinto.

 

Jack Doohan

Team: BWT Alpine F1 Team

Nationality: Australian

Birthplace: Gold Coast, Queensland

DOB: January 20, 2003; Age: 22

Car NO. 7

 

Yes, Jack Doohan is the son of five times GP500 Grand Prix Motorcycle World Champion Mick Doohan. Interestingly, Jack began Go Karting at age nine with a go Kart given to Him by none other than  Michael Schumacher!

 

After a successful Karting career, Jack made His single seater debut at age 15 in 2018, when competing in the F4 British championship. Racing for Arden alongside Red Bull Junior Driver Dennis Hauger, Doohan finished fith overall with three wins.

 

Next Doohan raced in the F3 Asian series, finishing Vice Champion, Er runner-up twice consecutively. Along with racing for Double R Racing in the Euro Formula Open series.

 

Doohan then graduated to the FIA formula 3 Championship for 2020, where He had less than stellar results driving for HWA Racelab. The following year He moved to Trident, where one of His teammates was David Schumacher, son of Ralf.

 

Jack made history at the Spa-Francorchamps round by becoming the first driver to win two races in a weekend. Yet ultimately lost the F3 title to Dennis Hauger; who will contest His rookie Indy NXT campaign for Andretti global this year

After contesting the final two rounds of that year’s Formula 2 season, Doohan raced His first full FIA F2 season for Virtuosi Racing alongside Marino Sato in 2022. Doohan scored three poles and three wins enroute to sixth overall in the championship.

 

For 2023, Jack remained with virtuosi and finished third overall on the strength of two poles and three victories, before leaving F2 at season’s end.

 

Having been a Red bull Junior Driver between 2017 and 2021, Doohan switched to the Alpine Academy for 2022, and got His first taste of Formula 1 machinery in Qatar that year. Making His Free Practice (FP) debut at Mexico City, and then again at Abu Dhabi. Also participating in that year’s post Abu dhabi Young Drivers test.

 

Continuing His testing duties for Alpine the following year, Jack was named as the team’s reserve driver for the 2024 F1 season, before making His Formula 1 debut at the season finale Abu Dhabi Grand Prix for the ousted Esteban Ocon.

 

Not sure why I felt compelled to track Doohan’s F1 debut outing, other than I suppose I was curious how He’d acquit Himself? Thus recording the following weekend’s positions, beginning with Friday’s (Free Practice) FP1 outing: P19-19-14-20-15.

 

Thus finishing 15th in His first Grand Prix, where He dorve the team’s No. 61 entry, Arse-sumedly it’s reserve car number.

 

As now the pressure surely rachets up, with the season commencing Down Under on Home soil in Bloody Melbourne, March 16^th, Righto? Where the Aussie’s will be delirious over having two of their Mates’ on the Formula 1 grid… 

F1: Post Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Young guns results

Y’all remember that test outing, Don’t Yuhs?

 

Now that IMSA’s “Super bowl” 24 Hours of Daytona is far behind in our rear view mirrors. And NASCAR Fans are still reveling in the just concluded Day-toner’ 500. As no idea of how ‘Ol Hulio’ did…

 

Soon, it’ll be time for Formula One’s lone, three day test in Bahrain; February 26-28, two weeks prior to the season opening Australian Grand Prix.

 

Thus, suppose its time to shift gears and begin focusing upon Open Wheel Racing, Eh? Since after all this Blog is called No Fenders. Which I scribble about occasionally, Hya!

 

Yet as always, your Haggard, Humble No Fenders scribe Tomaso is behind, and definitely at least one lap down! Simply unable to type-type-type fast enough for your consumption…

 

And although it garners almost zero attention, and certainly isn’t available visually. Nonetheless, the results of the yearly post Abu Dhabi Young Guns test results always intrigues me.

 

As there were a total of twenty-three drivers taking part. With teams allowed to run current Grands Prix drivers in their 2025 Pirelli tyre testing chassis. While the second car was allotted to driver who’ve only participated in a maximum of two Grands Prix. Leaving a disgruntled Oliver Bearman on the sidelines, due to His having contested three Grands Prix last season.

 

As the top four positions were held by Formula 1 race drivers. It should be no surprise that the touted Kimi Antonelli was quickest of the rookies. Even though being ill and only contesting the afternoon session. Hence the two Mercedes “Juniors” taking part, along with both Aston Martin and Ferrari splitting morning and afternoon sessions driving duties…

 

While check out who was P7. Hmm, Pato Who indeed Mark Miles, cough-cough!

 

As no idea what the two regular McLaren Boyz’ were doing regarding tyre testing, but Lando Norris finished P16 and Oscar Piastri was 19th.

 

Rookies/Young Gun Drivers

(Overall position/Driver/Team)

5) Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes

6) Ayumu Iwasa, Racing Bulls

7) Pato O’Ward, McLaren

9) Paul Aron, Alpine

11) Luke Browning, Williams

12) Ryo Hirakawa, Haas

14) Arthur Leclerc, Ferrari

15) Isack Hadjar, Red Bull

18) Gabriel Bortoleto, Sauber

20) Jack Crawford, Aston Martin

21) Felipe Drugovich, Aston Martin

22) Frederick Vesti, Mercedes

23) Antonio Fuoco, Ferrari

 

Even more impressive about O’Ward’s outing, is that He finished ahead of next year F1 rookies Jack Doohan, (8th) Isack Hadjar (15th) and Gabriel Bortoledo. (18th)

 

Had never heard of Ayumu Iwasa before the test. As the Japanese driver who raced in Formula 2 between 2022-23, and currently competes in Japan’s Super formula series. Is a member of the Red bull Junior programme, and a member of Honda’s Formula Dream project. Hence His testing for Racing bulls, for which I’d say He acquitted Himself nicely…

 

In descending order, Paul Aron, who finished third overall in last year’s FIA Formula 2 championship. Is part of the now overly crowded Alpine reserve drivers squad, which includes Franco Colapinto and Rya Hirakawa.

 

Hirakawa drives for Toyota’s FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) as His “Day Job”, having won the 2022 24 Heurs du Mans. And with Haas’s new technical alliance with Toyota, was given the nod for its “Young Guns” racecar.

 

Yet Hirakawa has now signed on as the third Alpine reserve, which aligns with Toyota’s sponsorship of Hitech’s lower formulae racing teams.

 

The others are all “tied” to their respective teams they drove for. With Luke Browning being a Williams Academy driver, a la the former Colapinto, and races in Formula 2. Although He’ll be driving for Hitech TGR this season in Formula 2, so no idea if still with Team Willy?

 

Arthur Leclerc is indeed the younger brother of Ferrar’s Charles Leclerc, with the pair making History earlier when both driving for Ferrari in the (Free Practice) FP1 session at Abu Dhabi. Whilst Antonio Fuoco races for Ferrari AF Corse in the WEC and won the 2024 24 Heurs du Mans as a Scuderia Ferrari Factory driver.

 

The lone Yank’ on the grid was Jack Crawford, another aspiring F2 racer, set to contest His third season in Formula 2 for Dams Lucas Oil. But with 54 races contested to date, with just two wins. Well, I’d say His chances of a Formula 1 ride are virtually nil…

 

Interestingly, I just learned that Crawford is also Andretti Global’s Formlua E reserve driver. While Crawford can take solace over beating out fellow Aston Martin reserve Felipe Drugovich by one position, in their intra-Aston Martin scrum.

 

Whilst Drugovich, the 2022 FIA Formula 2 Champion has most recently competed in this year’s Rolex 24 alongside fellow ex-F2 competitor Vesti.

 

As could Crawford and Drugovich be in line to race aboard Aston’s Valkyrie Hypercar project?

 

Frederik Vesti, a Mercedes Junior team member, drove the morning session for an ill Antonelli. As the Dane’ raced in F2 for two seasons. Finishing runner-up in 2023 with six wins, behind Theo Pourchaire.

 

Last year Vesti raced Sports Cars, primarily in the European Le Mans Series )ELMS) in LMP2. Along with making His debut in both the 24 Heurs du Mans and Rolex 24. The latter driving for Era Motorsport in the LMP2 category.

 

For 2025, Vesti has signed to race as Cadillac Whelen Engineering’s “third” endurance driver. Aboard the No. 31 Cadd-Oh-Lac’ V-Serioes.R IMSA GTP racecar, beginning at Daytona…