Ralf Schumacher breaks down the F1 rookie class, highlighting Antonelli’s strong support and Doohan’s uncertain future under Briatore’s watchful eye.
A former Grand Prix winner has analyzed the largest group of rookies in over a decade in Formula 1.
After no new drivers joined the 2024 starting grid, no fewer than six are making their full-time debuts this year, representing 30% of the grid.
Three of them have already competed in Grands Prix, including Max Verstappen’s new Red Bull Racing teammate, Liam Lawson (11 races), Jack Doohan (1), and Ferrari-backed Haas F1 driver Oliver Bearman (3).
“Bearman is a top-level driver who will make life difficult for Esteban Ocon,” predicts Ralf Schumacher.
British driver Bearman is only 19, but Lewis Hamilton’s replacement at Mercedes, Kimi Antonelli, is even younger.
“Antonelli shows great speed but needs to learn to hold back. His tests have been flawless. But with Toto Wolff, he has a strong mentor by his side to support him.”
The same cannot be said for Jack Doohan, who begins his first full season under a cloud of uncertainty, with Alpine advisor Flavio Briatore ready to replace the Australian with new recruit Franco Colapinto if necessary.
“Doohan is in a difficult position. Without performance, Briatore will give him no guarantees. He will be replaced if the results are not good.”
The other two 2025 rookies are both 20 years old: Isack Hadjar at Racing Bulls and reigning Formula 2 champion Gabriel Bortoleto, who also won the F3 title the previous year.
“Bortoleto has had a lot of success in Formula 3 and Formula 2, but he will struggle with Sauber. He has done the least testing, and it will be tough for him in qualifying against Nico Hülkenberg. He must not try to force things.”
Finally, when asked about Hadjar, Schumacher concluded: “He is difficult to assess – a great driver with excellent control, strong in overtaking, but also a hothead.”
“He still has a lot to learn, but he has a great team and will make life difficult for Yuki Tsunoda.”
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Rookies Under Scrutiny: Antonelli Safe, Doohan at Risk Rookies Under Scrutiny: Antonelli Safe, Doohan at Risk
