Lando Norris. We can only go on what we have seen so far and McLaren looked strongest in testing. I’m backing Norris to slay his demons from last season and get over the line this time – a good start is essential though.

There's his friend-turned-rival Max Verstappen's bid for a fifth title in a row. Just like the only driver to achieve that feat, Michael Schumacher, Verstappen is a hard racer who isn't afraid to bend the rules — as Norris knows from bitter experience.

Although Bernie Ecclestone says the F1 2025 championship is “open”, the former F1 supremo believes Max Verstappen “will” still make it five from five ahead of McLaren and Ferrari. As for the Ferrari battle,