P1racenews AI automatic summary:
McLaren secured both F1 championships in 2025, but outside the Woking-based squad, where did the season’s defining moments come from?
The 2025 Formula 1 season will be remembered for its drama and destabilization, with off-track decisions playing a pivotal role in reshaping the sport. The championship battle going down to the wire was overshadowed by ruthless driver calls, boardroom upheaval, and strategic pivots that altered the sport significantly. The 2026 regulations are set to bring the biggest technical reset in F1’s modern era, with choices made this year expected to redefine the championship’s future hierarchy. Six moments from the season have been highlighted as the most controversial and decisive developments that changed the course of Formula 1.
One of the standout moments of the season was Christian Horner’s departure and Laurent Mekies stepping in as Red Bull’s new team principal, marking a significant power shift within the team. Red Bull’s decision to replace Horner after over two decades at the helm was influenced by various factors, including internal power struggles and the team’s evolution into a full works power unit manufacturer for 2026. The appointment of Mekies brought a more technically integrated approach to the team, leading to structural stability, addressing early-season issues, and positioning Red Bull as McLaren’s primary challenger in the latter part of the season.
Another major development was Cadillac’s approval to join Formula 1 as the 11th team from 2026, signifying a significant structural change in the sport. Backed by General Motors and TWG Motorsports, Cadillac’s entry with a $450 million expansion fee validates Formula 1’s commercial expansion strategy and strengthens its presence in the American market. The team’s commitment to developing a full works operation and utilizing Ferrari engines during initial seasons positions them as a credible new entrant with a strategic long-term plan.
Max Verstappen’s announcement of staying with Red Bull for 2026 ended months of speculation linking him with Mercedes, providing clarity on his future in the sport. The decision marked a crucial moment in the driver market, with Verstappen’s commitment solidifying Red Bull’s lineup and temporarily putting an end to speculation surrounding his potential move to Mercedes.
