After five rounds in 2025
We are officially 20% through the 2025 F1 season. After the triple header, we get our first short break of the season after five races and three winners:
RACE/WINNER
Australia - Lando
China - Oscar
Japan - Max
Bahrain - Oscar (2)
Jeddah - Oscar (3)
We've seen Oscar rise from a quiet voice in the back of the room to taking a calm and controlled grip on the driver's title. His low-key demeanor is incredibly comforting. Oscar is a rare type of F1 driver: humble, calm, and quiet, which is simply lovely.
Speaking of Max, he is impressive and has tremendous speed, but Red Bull is the slightest bit behind McLaren at this point.
This brings me to McLaren, the team that took control of the constructors' title out of the gate and has not let off. They executed all the right strategies and established dominance early.
McLaren
**Oscar Wins, Lando Finishes 4th Despite Qualifying 10th**
McLaren has the best car on the grid. However, I'm starting to question whether Lando is still the best driver at McLaren. This discussion began last week, and it seems even more relevant after the race in Jeddah. Oscar is emerging as a clear favorite. The upcoming Miami race is crucial for both Oscar and Lando. If Lando isn't on the top step of the podium in Miami and Oscar is, it could significantly impact the team's dynamics. Has Lando overcome the growing pains he experienced a few years ago? The speculation continues. Is Lando still considered a championship-winning driver? That was the belief, but what if Oscar stealthily claims that title for himself, as a charming Australian would?
Red Bull
Max received a 5-second penalty, and Yuki hit Pierre, prompting a safety car. The performance of the Red Bull is better than many have been suggesting. Max's pace demonstrated that he had the fastest car of the weekend. It's debatable whether he would have won the race without that penalty. While there has been speculation that Red Bull's car is inferior this season, it's safe to say that the RB1 is quite impressive. However, the second-seat curse at Red Bull is more than just a rumor; it's unfolding right before our eyes.
Yuki is having a rough start at Red Bull, and it's difficult to watch. While it might be a spectacle, it's leading to losses in constructors' points, which translates to significant financial implications. Something needs to be resolved at Red Bull.
Mercedes
George finishes 5th, and Kimi 6th.
Can George somehow beat Max? Is that a crazy statement to make?
When will Mercedes introduce a significant upgrade? While this car is one of the best they've had at the start of a season in years, it still doesn't have the top-level pace needed to compete with McLaren in a race. Could some upgrades change the game for Mercedes?
Ferrari
Charles finished 3rd, while Lewis placed 7th.
Ferrari is shaking off the rust. The team executed excellent pit stops and devised a perfect strategy for Charles, who drove a fantastic stint on his tires. Although Lewis struggled with his car, he finished in the points, which isn't a complete disaster considering the previous double disqualification.
Miami presents an interesting challenge for Lewis. Traditionally, he does not qualify well there but tends to have a strong race pace, gaining positions on race day. If he can achieve a good qualifying time, Lewis could break his podium drought. Leclerc has had success in Miami, with a pole position and two podium finishes in the three races held there. Ferrari could be competitive in Miami. Caliente.
The way-too-early Power Rankings
Oscar (3.0 avg. finish)
Max (3.0 avg. finish)
George (3.6 avg. finish)
Lando (2.4 avg. finish)
Charles (N/A)
Constructors’ Title (after Round 5, Jeddah)
McLaren 188
Mercedes 111
Red Bull 89
Ferrari 78
Williams 35
I have to give Williams some love.
Carlos Sainz took P8, his highest finish since joining the Williams team.
While Teammate Alex Albon was ninth, meaning Williams scored with both cars for the second time this season, Albon scored points in four of the first five Grands Prix in 2025. Williams moved into fifth in the Constructors' Championship.
I feel a blockbuster trade is brewing. Someone big is moving, and somebody you think will be somewhere in 2026 will not be there. If I had to make a bet, it would involve Max and George.
