The 2025 Formula 1 season has concluded, delivering a fiercely competitive campaign that will be remembered for McLaren's dominance and a dramatic title fight. While Lando Norris clinched the drivers' championship, the end-of-season awards from senior F1 correspondent Daniel Moxon tell a different story, with some surprising winners and stark disappointments.
Top Honours and Podium Finishers
Despite securing the world title, McLaren's Lando Norris was denied the 'Driver of the Year' accolade. That honour went to Red Bull's Max Verstappen, who secured eight Grand Prix wins—more than either Norris or his McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri. Verstappen finished just two points behind Piastri in the standings, a remarkable feat that underscored his relentless performance.
Mercedes' George Russell, with two race wins in his best season to date, and champion Norris completed the podium for this award. For 'Team of the Year', there was no argument: McLaren took the prize after sealing their second consecutive constructors' title in early October, finishing a mammoth 364 points clear of their nearest rival. Williams, for a stunning points recovery, and Mercedes, for winning a tight battle for second, were also recognised.
Season Highlights and Standout Performances
The British Grand Prix at Silverstone was crowned 'Race of the Year'. Changeable weather led to strategic errors, multiple incidents, and thrilling wheel-to-wheel action, culminating in a popular home win for Norris and a maiden podium for Nico Hulkenberg. The rain-affected Australian Grand Prix and the season-opening Bahrain GP also received praise.
For the year's best overtake, Verstappen's daring move around the outside of Norris at Zandvoort's second corner was selected, a moment of breathtaking car control. The 'Rookie of the Year' title went to Red Bull junior Isack Hadjar, who rebounded from a crash on his debut formation lap in Melbourne to score a podium in Zandvoort and secure a 2026 seat with the senior team.
The Biggest Disappointments and Numpties
In the most damning category, Lewis Hamilton's debut season with Ferrari was labelled the 'Flop of the Year'. Apart from a Sprint race win in Shanghai, the seven-time champion endured a miserable campaign, starkly contrasted by the success of his Ferrari replacement, Carlos Sainz, at Williams. Sainz's two podiums earned him the 'Most Improved' award.
The dubious 'Numpty of the Year' award was handed to Ferrari chairman John Elkann for his November comments that drivers should "focus on driving and talk less", a statement seen as wildly out of touch with the team's struggles. FIA president Mohammed ben Sulayem and errant marshals in Mexico also found themselves on this unfortunate podium.
With records broken and reputations reshaped, the 2025 season has set a thrilling precedent for the year ahead, leaving fans with unforgettable moments and plenty of talking points.
