“2024 Motorsport Review: Top Drivers, Key Stories, and Who Needs to Step Up for 2025”

As we close the chapter on 2024, it’s time to reflect on the standout drivers and key stories that have shaped the motorsport season. Our writers have selected their top picks and analyzed who needs to raise their game heading into 2025.

Best Drivers of 2024:

1. Max Verstappen (Red Bull Racing): Max Verstappen’s dominance continued in 2024, cementing his place as one of the sport’s greats. With another commanding title under his belt, Verstappen displayed an unrivaled combination of consistency, adaptability, and racecraft. His ability to manage races from the front and capitalize on every opportunity has set him apart from his competitors. Verstappen’s unwavering focus and strategic intelligence ensure that Red Bull remains at the pinnacle of F1 in the coming year.
2. Lando Norris (McLaren): Lando Norris has grown into one of F1’s most promising talents. His podium finishes and relentless drive showcased McLaren’s recovery to the front of the grid. Norris’ calm under pressure and ability to outpace teammates in critical moments were key factors in McLaren’s improved performance. With 2024 proving to be a breakthrough year, the British driver will be looking to challenge for even more in 2025.
3. Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes): Although he didn’t secure a championship, Hamilton’s performances in 2024 were a testament to his experience and skill. In a season where Mercedes struggled with development issues, Hamilton’s ability to extract maximum performance from the car has remained impressive. His leadership within the team and his fierce determination to win make him a force to be reckoned with in 2025.
4. Sergio Perez (Red Bull Racing): Though often overshadowed by Verstappen’s brilliance, Perez had several standout moments in 2024, claiming podiums and solidifying his role as a reliable second driver for Red Bull. His consistency and ability to assist the team in securing constructors’ titles make him a key asset for the team moving forward.

Notable Stories of 2024:

1. McLaren’s Revival: McLaren’s resurgence has been one of the most exciting stories of the season. With technical upgrades and an aggressive development strategy, they have fought their way back to the front of the grid. The team’s momentum is expected to carry over into 2025, as they continue to challenge the top teams.
2. The Rise of New Talent: 2024 saw several younger drivers rise to prominence, including George Russell, Oscar Piastri, and the promising rookie, Logan Sargeant. These drivers are injecting fresh energy into the grid and making their mark against seasoned competitors.
3. Team Dynamics: The ongoing rivalry between Verstappen and Perez at Red Bull provided compelling drama throughout the year. The internal team dynamic between these two drivers and how it impacts the team’s overall strategy will continue to be a storyline heading into the new season.

Who Needs to Up Their Game in 2025?

1. Ferrari: Despite the occasional flashes of brilliance, Ferrari’s 2024 campaign was marked by inconsistent performance and internal team struggles. With a powerful driver lineup of Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz, Ferrari must focus on improving reliability, car development, and tactical decisions if they are to challenge for the championship in 2025.
2. Alpine: While Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly showed promise, Alpine’s performance in 2024 fell short of expectations. They need to improve their consistency and stop being overshadowed by teams like McLaren and Aston Martin if they want to become serious contenders.

In 2025, the competition is set to intensify, and only the most adaptable and forward-thinking teams and drivers will thrive. The stage is set for another exhilarating year of motorsport.