Wild Grid Takes: 2025 is About to Get Messy

Bold, Bizarre, and Absolutely Possible

Formula 1 is never short on surprises, and 2025 is shaping up to be a season full of drama, unpredictability, and absolute chaos. From shock podiums to bold team moves, we’re throwing out some of the wildest predictions for the upcoming season. If even one of these comes true, we’re in for an incredible ride.

Ocon on the Podium… in a Haas?!

Haas has never seen a podium, but if anyone can pull off the unexpected, it’s Esteban Ocon. He has a history of capitalizing on chaos, as we saw in Hungary 2021. If a race turns into a strategic mess, or if rain plays a role, don’t be surprised if Ocon finds himself in the right place at the right time—this time in a Haas. It would be a shocker, but not impossible.

Gabriel Bortoleto Will Beat Nico Hülkenberg

Hülkenberg is a proven midfield veteran, but 2025 might be the year a fresh-faced rookie steps up and outshines him. Gabriel Bortoleto is young, aggressive, and eager to prove himself. While experience matters, so does raw talent. By the second half of the season, we could see Bortoleto consistently finishing ahead of Hülkenberg, making a strong case for his future in F1.

Aston Martin Falls to 8th

Aston Martin is playing the long game, with 2026 as their real focus. With Adrian Newey in their camp, they’re likely shifting all their resources to the new regulations. But that could mean 2025 becomes a season of struggle. If their development stagnates while others push forward, dropping to P8 in the Constructors’ isn’t out of the question. It’d be a painful step backward, but a strategic one.

Carlos Sainz Will Get Two Top-Five Finishes

Carlos Sainz’s future is uncertain, but one thing is clear—wherever he ends up, he will deliver. Even if he’s in a midfield car, Sainz has the ability to extract top-tier performances when it matters. In chaotic races or with smart strategy calls, expect him to fight his way into the top five at least twice, proving he still belongs at the sharp end of the grid.

Jack Doohan Gets Replaced Mid-Season by Franco Colapinto

Alpine has a track record of impulsive driver decisions, and if Jack Doohan struggles early, they won’t hesitate to make a change. Franco Colapinto has been making waves and could be Alpine’s backup plan. If Doohan doesn’t perform, expect Alpine to make a ruthless mid-season switch, giving Colapinto an unexpected shot at proving himself in F1.

Albon vs. Sainz: A Crash is Coming

Some driver pairings just scream "inevitable collision," and Albon vs. Sainz feels like one of them. Whether it's a hard-fought battle for position or a simple misjudgment, the two are bound to clash. It could happen in a high-pressure moment or just bad luck, but expect team radios full of frustration and social media debates over who’s to blame.

Fernando Alonso’s Last Dance?

Fernando Alonso has defied expectations for years, but could 2025 finally be the year he walks away? With Aston Martin focusing on the future, he may decide to leave before the team moves in a different direction. If this is his final season, expect an emotional farewell full of classic Alonso moments—defensive masterclasses, fiery radio messages, and a legendary exit on his terms.

Yuki Tsunoda Leaves Racing Bulls for Aston Martin

Yuki Tsunoda has been loyal to the Red Bull family, but if Racing Bulls doesn’t offer him a clear path forward, he may start looking elsewhere. Aston Martin could be the perfect destination if they need a fresh, aggressive driver for 2026. If his performances stand out in 2025, don’t be surprised if he makes a shock move away from the Red Bull system.

Final Thoughts: Bring on the Chaos

F1 is at its most exciting when it’s unpredictable, and 2025 is shaping up to be one of those seasons. Surprise podiums, unexpected transfers, retirements, and driver clashes—it’s all on the table. If even a fraction of these predictions come true, we’re in for a wild, unforgettable year.

See you in the next issue of Lights Out!