Ferrari Absence from Chinese Grand Prix CONFIRMED as Rookies go for Redemption…

Preview of the 2025 Chinese Grand Prix: By Joe Murphy

With the second chapter of the 2025 Formula 1 season already upon us, the Chinese Grand Prix is an extremely captivating one with more questions than answers after last week’s chaos in Melbourne. The Shanghai International Circuit has plenty of overtaking opportunities so a strong race is well and truly on the cards.

A dry race will give a more accurate reflection as to the true pace of the teams. But what else can we expect? (Other than another early start for UK fans at 7am).

McLaren should be set to achieve another 1-2, certainly in qualifying. With Verstappen more likely to achieve 3rd over the likes of Leclerc and Russell, there is a danger that these front three form a gap to those behind. It’s safe to say that Norris, Piastri and Verstappen will be a common front trio. The order in which they qualify and finish is less certain.

Pressure will be on Lewis Hamilton to perform better than last week. There was a gap to Charles Leclerc all weekend in Melbourne, and this week gives the Brit a chance to prove a point. It won’t be easy, with Team Principal Fred Vasseur revealing that despite the fact he expects big improvements in China this weekend, they must do so without technical director Loic Serra.

This weekend will also give the rookies on the grid a chance to move on from last weekend. Bortaleto, who may have a penalty to serve from last week’s unsafe release, joins the likes of Lawson and Doohan in hoping to at least complete the Grand Prix. Carlos Sainz and Fernando Alonso will also be looking to bounce back following a disappointing Sunday last time out. Issac Hadjar will also, hopefully, start his first F1 Grand Prix this weekend, after the tragic events in Melbourne saw him crash out on the formation lap.

In contrast, Kimi Antonelli, Alex Albon, Lance Stroll and Nico Hulkenberg are among the drivers hoping for a repeat success after scoring well at Albert Park in the opener.

In terms of predictions, you can expect the aforementioned trip of Verstappen and the McLarens to take the podium, with Piastri a good shout to take the win. Russell, Leclerc and Hamilton should follow suit, although discount Gasly and the Williams cars from contending for points positions at your peril. Sauber may struggle more in comparison, as may Aston Martin. You can also back Yuki Tsunoda to score points after losing out last week.

W2W top ten prediction…

1.Piastri

2.Norris

3.Verstappen

4.Leclerc

5.Russell

6.Hamilton

7.Sainz

8.Albon

9.Tsunoda

10.Antonelli