Happy New Year to all motorsport enthusiasts! And even if you’re not a fan but are reading this, Happy New Year to you as well.
As is tradition at this time of year, I like to reflect on the upcoming season and share some wishes. If this is your first time reading my thoughts, please know these aren’t predictions, and some are more like hopes for impossibilities.
If you’re considering betting on any of these ideas, you might want to reconsider—although you could check out last year’s wishlist to see that I sometimes get my wishes granted, so perhaps I should consider backing a few of them myself.
REGULAR WINS FROM MULTIPLE TEAMS
This is a staple in every wishlist I write, and this year it seems even more crucial. New regulations often lead to wider gaps in performance and the potential for one team to excel significantly with their new car.
Historical examples include 2014 and 2017, both dominated by Mercedes, though Ferrari did challenge in those years before falling off. McLaren’s unexpected start last year added unpredictability, and as we approach 2026, there’s hope that the cost cap will prevent any single team from gaining a monopolistic edge.
NORRIS ELEVATES HIS GAME
Lando Norris made an impactful finish last season, winning his first world championship, but some fans didn’t fully recognize his achievement due to inconsistent performances early in the season.
While he displayed his skills intermittently, confidence plays a significant role, and his championship victory could bolster his consistency. With rising talent Oscar Piastri, if McLaren delivers another competitive car, they could become formidable contenders, and I hope to see both drivers performing at their peak.
HAMITON AND FERRARI ALIGN
A topic from last year that continues to resonate is the potential for Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari to excel together. I never desire negativity in F1, but Hamilton’s struggles with his new team were disheartening. Even if fans root for other drivers, it’s significant when high-caliber competitors like him and Charles Leclerc are in contention.
Though there were glimpses of Hamilton’s prowess, a race-winning car maximizes his potential. The dynamic between Hamilton and Leclerc could be compelling if Ferrari returns to form, which would likely enhance interest in the championship.
CADILLAC ENTERS THE FRAY
Cadillac’s entrance into the F1 arena should be viewed with a realistic mindset. They’re not just creating a car but building a fully functional team, which takes time. It’s been less than ten months since their entry was finalized, and considerable effort is needed simply to participate in pre-season.
Unlike a Haas setup, Cadillac is constructing their vehicle independently, which sets different expectations for their debut. While it might be disappointing if they start at the bottom of the standings, it would reflect the championship’s quality and make their eventual successes all the more notable.
