F1 season to launch with never-before-seen event in London as Lewis Hamilton faces awkward reunion at secretive show

THE 2025 Formula One season will kickstart with a brand new launch event in London next month.

For the first time in the sport’s history, all ten teams will come together at the O2 Arena to unveil their new liveries.

They will also showcase their driver line-ups – many of which will be different to last season’s.

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton will be in attendance with new team Ferrari and team-mate Charles Leclerc.

Mercedes – Hamilton’s former team – will also be attendance with principal Toto Wolff as well as George Russell and rookie Kimi Antonelli.

Reigning champion Max Verstappen previously hinted that he could pull a sickie in order to miss the event.

Asked about it while streaming in November, the Dutchman said: “What is F1 75? What are you talking about?”

After being informed about what it was, he continued: “I don’t watch any F1… I hope I’m sick that week.”

Should he attend, Verstappen will line up alongside Red Bull team principal Christian Horner and new team-mate Liam Lawson.

Lawson was announced as Sergio Perez’s replacement in December.

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The 34-year-old was axed after finishing eighth in the driver standings.

McLaren – who won the Constructors’ Championship last year – will be there with the same line-up of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri as they launch their new papaya livery.

Fans will be able to hear from all 20 drivers and all 10 team principals on the night, with some special guests also promised.

The event will also be streamed for those who were unable to get tickets.

In another change to the F1 season, Rolex has been replaced as the sport’s official timekeeper.

The luxury watch brand has been replaced by TAG Heuer.

TAG’s return comes as the first individual partner as part of F1’s 10-year deal with luxury goods company LVMH.

Source: Motorsport - thesun.co.uk