P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The 2025 F1 season is set to be a close affair with multiple teams and drivers predicted to be in contention for the titles on offer.
1997 F1 champion Jacques Villeneuve doubts Max Verstappen will vie for the drivers’ title this season, despite seeking his fifth consecutive championship. Only Michael Schumacher has achieved this feat previously, winning from 2000 to 2004. Verstappen’s 2024 title came amid Red Bull’s fall to third in the constructors’ championship, with McLaren and Ferrari rising to first and second. Villeneuve backs McLaren to compete at the top, but warns of the potential rivalry issues between drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. Meanwhile, Hamilton’s move to Ferrari is seen as a significant change, as the 40-year-old eyes an eighth F1 title. Villeneuve believes Hamilton has the potential to challenge for the championship, overlooking Red Bull as a contender this year.
