WEEKEND WARM-UP: McLaren seek the ideal start while Hamilton prepares for his Ferrari debut as F1 returns in Australia

The 2025 season kicks off in Australia, with the F1 circus all assembled in Melbourne for the opening race of the season. But who will get their campaign off to the perfect start, and how will the rookies fare up and down the grid?

There will be plenty of attention on Lewis Hamilton, as he finally makes his long-awaited Ferrari debut, with the Scuderia likely to fancy their chances here after scoring a 1-2 last season. Although, according to many, McLaren are the favourites – just don't tell Lando Norris, who thinks his team will be in for a tough fight at the front.

Norris' team mate Oscar Piastri will also be looking to impress on home soil, as will rookie Jack Doohan who gets ready for his first full season as an Alpine driver.

READ MORE: ‘We are not the quickest at the moment’ – Verstappen assesses where Red Bull stand ahead of Australian Grand Prix

As for Max Verstappen, he knows he has a tough fight on his hands if he wants to keep hold of his World Championship crown – and he has a new team mate alongside him too, in Liam Lawson. How will the Kiwi racer fare when up against a four-time World Champion?

Hit go on the video player above to join Laura Winter, Ruth Buscombe Divey, Jolyon Palmer, Alex Jacques and Lawrence Barretto for all of those talking points and much more.