Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has openly discussed the "surprise" level of pressure he's experiencing at Ferrari, following his high-profile move. Meanwhile, Red Bull Racing has officially welcomed Yuki Tsunoda to partner Max Verstappen, a significant shake-up in the driver market.
Why it matters:
- Hamilton's Challenge: Hamilton's frank admission highlights the immense expectations at Ferrari, currently second in the Constructors' standings. His transition to the iconic Italian team carries the weight of delivering a championship, something they've long sought.
- Red Bull's New Pairing: Tsunoda's promotion to Red Bull alongside triple world champion Max Verstappen signifies a major vote of confidence and a new dynamic for the team, which currently sits fourth in the Constructors' Championship.
The big picture:
- Championship Fight: McLaren currently leads the Constructors' Championship with 559 points, showcasing strong performances from Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris. Ferrari follows with 260 points, driven by Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton.
- Red Bull's Position: Despite Verstappen's individual prowess, Red Bull is fourth with 194 points, trailing Mercedes (236 points) and struggling to consistently challenge the front-runners this season. Tsunoda's arrival is expected to bolster their efforts.
What's next:
- The season continues with upcoming races at Zandvoort (August 31) and Monza (September 7).
- All eyes will be on how Hamilton adapts to the pressure and if Tsunoda can quickly integrate into the Red Bull setup to boost their championship aspirations. The new driver pairings could significantly impact the competitive landscape for the remainder of 2025.