Norris's Title, Hamilton's Struggles Define F1's Most-Read Stories of 2025
Lando Norris's maiden championship, Lewis Hamilton's difficult Ferrari debut, and Max Verstappen's near-ban were among the top stories that captivated F1 fans in 2025, according to a roundup of the year's most-read articles.
The 2025 F1 season was a dramatic turning point, defined by Lando Norris's maiden title, Lewis Hamilton's turbulent move to Ferrari, and Max Verstappen's on-track controversies. A roundup of the year's most-read articles reveals that these major storylines, alongside significant team changes and heartfelt tributes, dominated the conversation among fans.
Why it matters:
This list serves as a barometer for what truly resonates with the F1 audience. It highlights a shift in the competitive order with Norris's coronation, the enduring global fascination with Hamilton's career, and the intense scrutiny on Verstappen's conduct. It also shows that off-track drama, team strategy shifts, and human interest stories hold as much weight as race results themselves.
The details:
- A New Champion & A Near Ban: Lando Norris's first World Championship and Max Verstappen's narrow two-point loss were central narratives, punctuated by the Dutchman's clash with George Russell in Spain that put him on the brink of a race ban.
- Hamilton's Ferrari Saga: Lewis Hamilton's winless season at Ferrari dominated headlines, from his much-hyped arrival and subsequent struggles to public pleas for patience and speculation about his future.
- Major Off-Track Moves: Significant developments captured attention, including McLaren's announcement to enter Hypercar racing from 2027 while exiting Formula E, and the reported exit of Christian Horner from Red Bull.
- Human Interest & Tributes: The F1 community mourned the loss of popular figures, with heartfelt tributes paid to long-serving cameraman Ulises Panizza and retiring presenter Steve Rider, who received support from stars like Lando Norris.
- Controversies & Lighter Moments: Ferrari's disqualification from Le Mans for a technical breach and Jeremy Clarkson's viral parody of Hamilton's Ferrari announcement proved that both serious disputes and viral moments drive fan engagement.
The big picture:
The 2025 season's most popular stories paint a picture of a sport in transition. A new champion has been crowned, a legend is facing an unprecedented challenge, and the established order is being questioned. The fans' engagement with these diverse narratives—from technical disputes to personal retirements—proves that F1's appeal extends far beyond the racetrack, fueled by human drama and the constant evolution of its key players.