The 2025 Formula One Drivers' Market: Drivers at Risk of Being Out of Seat
Image Credit: Haas
The 2025 drivers' market is falling into place as many vital pieces have fallen into place. For example, Carlos Sainz is heading to Williams, and Esteban Ocon is heading to Haas. There will be some casualties, as some drivers will lose their seats. This year, in particular, many great drivers who have had successful careers may be in danger of losing their places.
Daniel Ricciardo
Daniel Ricciardo's future in Formula One is tricky because he could end up in the best possible scenario or be off the grid entirely. This is because Sergio Pérez's performances haven't been the best lately, which has led Red Bull to doubt his abilities. It has resulted in many rumours that the Milton Keynes-based team is looking at replacements for the Mexican driver. Ricciardo will be the front-runner to replace Pérez if Red Bull decides to make a change. However, if that isn't the case, he must fight for a spot at Team RB. The team will likely want to get a driver they can develop for the future, such as Liam Lawson. Whatever happens, the Australian will have a big following and will be beloved by fans.
Kevin Magnussen
Image Credit: Haas
Kevin Magnussen is a very experienced driver in F1 and is an underrated talent on the grid. The Danish driver lost out on his seat this year and no longer has a drive for 2025. He lost his Haas drive for 2021 but had a late call-up to the team in 2022 when they needed a driver on short notice. Now that Oliver Bearman and Ocon will be joining the team, Magnussen is facing leaving the grid yet again. Even though Magnussen is a solid driver, his options for 2025 are minimal, as are many of the seats he would have wanted. Sadly, with seats running out, it seems like the writing is on the wall for Magnussen's hopes for a drive next season. However, anything can happen in F1, so you never know what will happen next year.
Valtteri Bottas
Valtteri Bottas has had a very successful career in F1, with many wins and podiums. In 2022, he left Mercedes for Sauber. However, it is safe to say that the move hasn't played out very well. Even though the team enjoyed great success as it was one of the top cars in the midfield throughout the majority of 2022, Bottas hasn't been able to show what he is capable of because Sauber has not produced a competitive car over the past couple of years. However, there seems to be light at the end of the tunnel because Audi will be taking over from 2026. This has led to much discussion about who will drive for the team next year and beyond. Many people have been linked with the team, but all their rumoured targets have gone elsewhere. This means Bottas may have an opportunity to re-sign with the team, yet it will be hard to see him find a drive anywhere else if that doesn't happen.
2025 looks set to be an exciting year, and it will be fascinating to see how it all plays out.
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