FIA steward and former F1 driver Johnny Herbert has thrown his weight behind Lewis Hamilton, suggesting that a record-breaking eighth World Championship with Ferrari in 2025 would be the ultimate storyline for Formula 1. However, Herbert also acknowledged the growing strength of McLaren, predicting that the Woking-based team is the front-runner for both the Constructors’ and Drivers’ Championships next season.
McLaren’s Momentum and 2025 Prospects
Reflecting on McLaren’s performance in 2024, Herbert praised the resurgence of the Papaya team. Led by Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, McLaren clinched the Constructors’ Championship after a fierce battle with Ferrari, marking the team’s first title since 1998.
“I would expect McLaren to start stronger than the rest. But as we saw last year, the beginning is crucial. Red Bull’s early dominance gave Verstappen enough of a cushion to defend his crown, even with a mid-season slump,” Herbert explained.
Herbert tipped McLaren to be a force to reckon with but stressed the importance of sustaining their momentum throughout the season, something they struggled with in the previous two years.
Hamilton and Ferrari: A Championship Dream
When asked about his ideal outcome for the 2025 season, Herbert didn’t hesitate to dream big:
“Yes, I think Lewis Hamilton winning the championship this year would be the perfect scenario. He’s in Ferrari now—arguably the most iconic team in motorsport—and seeing him achieve that record-breaking eighth title would be nothing short of historic.”
Hamilton, who moved to Ferrari after over a decade at Mercedes, faces the challenge of adapting to a new team dynamic while contending with strong opposition from McLaren, Red Bull, and Aston Martin.
McLaren Duo: Norris vs. Piastri
The competition between McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri is another storyline Herbert is keeping an eye on. With six wins between them in 2024, the duo established McLaren as a top contender. However, Herbert noted the potential for fireworks:
“Lando and Oscar have been fantastic for McLaren, but let’s not forget how tight things can get when teammates are fighting for the same championship. It could be tough for both drivers as the stakes rise.”
Ferrari vs. McLaren: A Battle of Giants
While Herbert believes Ferrari’s resurgence would be brilliant for the sport, he remains emotionally tied to McLaren’s legacy:
“Ferrari winning the championship would be brilliant for F1. But for me, seeing McLaren finally return to its dominant form would be even better. They’ve been around just as long as Ferrari, and their recent performances show they’re ready for glory.”
2025 Predictions: The Key Players
- Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari: Chasing a record eighth title.
- Max Verstappen and Red Bull: Rebounding from a mid-season slump in 2024 to defend his Drivers’ title.
- Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri: Aiming to bring McLaren its first Drivers’ Championship since Mika Hakkinen in 1999.
The Verdict
As the 2025 season looms, Herbert’s comments highlight an exciting narrative for F1 fans. Whether it’s Hamilton achieving greatness with Ferrari or McLaren cementing its dominance, the battle for supremacy promises to be one for the ages. One thing is certain: the stakes have never been higher.