No Votes for Hamilton, Lando Norris as 2025 Favorite

As the Formula 1 circus revs up for the 2025 season, a storm of controversy brews in the paddock. Sky F1 pundits have delivered their bold predictions for the next World Champion, and the results are as shocking as they are divisive. Lewis Hamilton, the sport’s greatest champion, has been snubbed entirely, with not a single vote cast in his favor. Meanwhile, Lando Norris, the young McLaren star, has emerged as the frontrunner in the eyes of several commentators. What does this say about Hamilton’s legacy, and is Norris truly ready to inherit the throne?

Hamilton’s Ferrari Gamble: A Risky Move or the End of an Era?

Hamilton’s decision to leave Mercedes for Ferrari in 2025 sent shockwaves through the F1 world. Partnering with Charles Leclerc, the Scuderia’s golden boy, was touted as a blockbuster pairing. Yet, Sky F1’s panel suggests it’s a gamble that could tarnish Hamilton’s once-unshakable reputation.

Martin Brundle didn’t mince words, questioning whether Hamilton’s “absolute peak” is behind him. At 40, can Hamilton still dominate, or has the sport outpaced its elder statesman? Critics argue that Ferrari’s historically inconsistent performance may rob Hamilton of his last chance to secure the elusive eighth title and cement himself as the undisputed GOAT.

But Brundle remains cautiously optimistic, claiming, “Even at 98 per cent, Hamilton in a race-winning Ferrari will win races.” A faint praise, perhaps, but not a glowing endorsement.

Lando Norris: The People’s Champion or an Overhyped Contender?

While Hamilton was left in the cold, Lando Norris received an avalanche of support. Nico Rosberg, Anthony Davidson, and Danica Patrick all tipped the McLaren ace to clinch his maiden championship. Norris, now firmly established as a top-tier driver, ended the 2024 season as Max Verstappen’s closest competitor, consistently challenging Red Bull’s dominance.

Yet, some fans question whether Norris has the killer instinct required to dethrone a driver like Verstappen. Is the McLaren truly competitive enough to deliver on this hype, or are pundits banking on an emotional narrative rather than hard evidence? Critics argue that while Norris has talent, he has yet to prove himself under the relentless pressure of a full-scale title fight.

Max Verstappen: Relentless Dominance or a Bubble About to Burst?

Speaking of Verstappen, Sky F1’s David Croft threw his weight behind the Dutchman to secure his fifth consecutive title. Verstappen’s consistency with Red Bull has been nothing short of phenomenal, and his ability to stay ahead of rising challengers remains unmatched.

But the competition is catching up. With McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes closing the gap, will Verstappen’s streak of dominance finally come to an end? Croft’s vote suggests confidence in Red Bull’s ability to innovate and adapt, but history has shown that dynasties in F1 rarely last forever. Could 2025 be the year when cracks start to appear?

George Russell: The Quiet Threat to Verstappen and Norris

In perhaps the most intriguing prediction, Martin Brundle backed George Russell to claim his first World Championship. Russell has been overshadowed by Hamilton during his time at Mercedes, but with Hamilton’s departure, he now steps into the role of team leader. Paired with 18-year-old prodigy Kimi Antonelli, Russell has a unique opportunity to establish himself as the face of Mercedes’ future.

However, some question whether Russell has the aggression needed to take on Verstappen or the charisma to capture fans’ hearts like Norris. For all his talent, Russell remains a polarizing figure—respected but not adored.

The Ferrari Enigma: Leclerc’s Lone Vote Sparks Debate

Charles Leclerc, Ferrari’s long-term project, received a single vote from Ted Kravitz. Despite his immense talent, Leclerc has often struggled with the weight of Ferrari’s expectations and the team’s strategic blunders. Partnering with Hamilton could either elevate Leclerc to new heights or expose him as a driver who thrives only when unchallenged within the team.

Ferrari’s track record suggests a volatile season ahead. While they’ve shown flashes of brilliance, their inability to deliver consistent performance may doom both Leclerc and Hamilton’s championship hopes. Kravitz’s vote for Leclerc feels more like a vote of confidence in his potential rather than Ferrari’s ability to deliver.

Is Hamilton’s Legacy in Jeopardy?

The elephant in the room remains Hamilton’s complete exclusion from the predictions. For a driver who once seemed destined to rewrite every record in the book, this marks a dramatic shift in perception. Critics argue that Hamilton’s move to Ferrari is a desperate attempt to cling to relevance in a sport that increasingly favors youth and adaptability.

On the other hand, supporters see this as Hamilton’s chance to prove his greatness once and for all. Winning with Ferrari, a team synonymous with both triumph and tragedy, would be the ultimate statement of his enduring brilliance.

2025: A Season for the Ages?

With Verstappen defending his crown, Norris chasing his first, and Russell stepping into the spotlight, the 2025 F1 season promises a showdown for the ages. Add to that the unpredictability of Ferrari with its star-studded lineup, and you have a recipe for one of the most captivating seasons in recent memory.

But as Sky F1 pundits have made clear, this is no ordinary season. It’s a year that could redefine legacies, shatter expectations, and crown a new king—or solidify an old one.

The question remains: Will Hamilton silence his doubters, or has the curtain already fallen on his era of dominance?