F1 2025 United States GP: Drivers' Thursday Press Conference Highlights

Formula 1 drivers Fernando Alonso, Franco Colapinto, Oliver Bearman, Max Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton, and Gabriel Bortoleto discussed their season performances, championship predictions, and the impact of broadcasted team radios during the Thursday press conference at the 2025 United States Grand Prix.

Why it matters:

This press conference offers crucial insights into driver mindsets, team strategies, and championship dynamics as the 2025 season approaches its climax. Driver comments on car performance and the pressure of title fights provide valuable context for the upcoming races, especially with key figures like Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton sharing their perspectives.

The Details:

• Oliver Bearman (Haas): Expressed excitement for his home race with team upgrades, noting improved consistency in his driving since the summer break. He acknowledged team changes are also contributing to his positive outlook.
• Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin): Described his season as 'not one to be remembered' despite out-qualifying his teammate 18-0, attributing performance fluctuations to car characteristics and circuit layouts. He is cautiously optimistic for points at COTA, a track where Aston Martin has struggled previously, but noted sprint weekends typically benefit them.
• Franco Colapinto (Alpine): Feels he's 'finding his groove' at Alpine, showing improved consistency and out-qualifying Pierre Gasly in four of the last five races. He highlighted the team's ongoing struggle with car pace but praised their sustained motivation and hard work, emphasizing it's good preparation for a potentially better car next year.
• Max Verstappen (Red Bull Racing): Reflected on Red Bull's strong post-summer break performance, gaining 41 points on Oscar Piastri. He gave a 'fifty-fifty' chance for the championship, focusing on a race-by-race approach rather than long-term predictions about car performance. He also candidly discussed his father's profound influence on his racing career, highlighting Jos Verstappen's technical knowledge and commitment.
• Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari): Shared a personal anecdote about overcoming horse allergies to ride for the first time, signaling a new chapter in his life. On track, he emphasized internal improvements and better execution to 'extract more' from the Ferrari, aiming for a step forward despite no major performance upgrades.
• Gabriel Bortoleto (Kick Sauber): Celebrated his first race in Austin, describing the track as 'fun and enjoyable' despite its bumpiness. He believes Kick Sauber can still score points in the remaining races, aiming to maximize potential despite increased competition and development from other teams.

Between the lines:

• Championship Race: While specific names were avoided, Alonso and Bearman hinted at McLaren's Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri being strong contenders, with Verstappen a dark horse due to his exceptional ability to 'overcome the deficit of the car.' Verstappen's 'fifty-fifty' remark underscores his pragmatic approach to the title chase.
• Team Radio Debate: All three drivers in the first panel (Alonso, Colapinto, Bearman) expressed frustration with the broadcasting of unfiltered team radio messages, citing adrenaline, pressure, and the loss of context in private conversations. Alonso criticized the selective broadcasting and its potential to overshadow the actual race.
• Horner Rumors: Hamilton dismissed rumors of Christian Horner joining Ferrari as 'distracting' and 'unhelpful,' reaffirming the team's commitment to Fred Vasseur and focusing on future development.
• F1's US Growth: Hamilton praised the massive growth of F1 in the U.S. since 2012, crediting COTA as a favorite track and highlighting the impact of initiatives like Netflix and the upcoming F1 movie in attracting new fans.

What's next:

With six races remaining, including three Sprint weekends, drivers are focused on maximizing car performance and preparing for the 2026 regulations. Alonso emphasized using the remaining races for operational improvements and energy conservation, while Hamilton stressed learning from past weekends and building stronger team relationships. The intense championship battle, coupled with evolving car performance, promises an exciting conclusion to the 2025 season.