New season, new challenges: larger wheels, sustainable fuel, and fierce competition set the stage for an exciting year in F3.
The 2025 FIA Formula 3 season has kicked off with free practice, unveiling key changes and early impressions of the new car. One of the most significant updates is the introduction of 16-inch wheels, replacing the previous 13-inch ones. This adjustment has led to mixed feedback from drivers, with some stating the car feels similar to last year’s model, while others claim it requires a completely new driving approach.
Performance and Adaptation
The wet conditions during the pre-season testing highlighted Rodin Motorsport’s strength, as they performed well under challenging circumstances. The circuit used for free practice, Albert Park in Melbourne, is a non-permanent street track that runs partially through a popular park, marking a staple event for Formula 1 as well.
Drivers such as Noel León, a standout performer from last year, and Brando Badoer, son of former F1 driver Luca Badoer and now affiliated with McLaren, are among the most interesting prospects this season. Other notable names include Ugo Ugochukwu, McLaren’s young talent and the reigning Formula Regional Americas champion, and Noah Strømsted, a member of the Mercedes junior program. Rafael Câmara, the 2024 Formula Regional champion, is another exciting talent to watch, along with Charlie Wurz, son of ex-F1 driver Alex Wurz, who returns for another F3 season.
Sustainability in F3
A major milestone for the championship is the introduction of 100% sustainable fuel, developed in collaboration with Aramco. The series has been gradually transitioning towards sustainability, and 2025 marks the first season where all cars will run on fully green fuel, reinforcing a commitment to an environmentally responsible future.
Key Drivers to Watch
Laurens van Hoepen, already experienced in F3, is considered a title contender. James Wharton, with 130 career races, brings valuable experience, while Nikola Tsolov, previously in Alpine’s program and now with Red Bull, is a fast but inconsistent driver. Gerrard Xie steps up from Euroformula, looking to prove himself. Tim Tramnitz, ninth in the 2024 season, is expected to be a race winner this year. Callum Voisin found the new car faster than expected and praised the 16-inch wheels, while Bruno Del Pino, nephew of Pedro de la Rosa, steps up after a strong Eurocup 3 campaign. Alessandro Giusti, part of the Williams young driver program, is another name to watch after finishing fourth in Formula Regional.
Free Practice Insights
Santiago Ramos continues his development, and Ivan Domingues enters his third F3 season after significant progress in recent years. Meanwhile, Louis Sharp embarks on his first full international season. Câmara, part of Ferrari’s young driver program, aims for continuous improvement. Nicola Lacorte, son of WEC driver Roberto Lacorte, and Christian Ho, who has primarily raced in Spain, are also names to follow.
The first free practice session saw significant oversteer due to the semi-permanent nature of the track. Voisin highlighted his adaptation, while Tramnitz emphasized the importance of qualifying in F3, acknowledging his struggles last season. The new car is visually appealing and designed to promote closer racing, with a philosophy similar to F3 regulations from 4-5 years ago. The engine remains naturally aspirated, unlike F2’s turbocharged unit, and the main novelty lies in the use of sustainable fuel.
Free Practice Results and Expectations
The larger, heavier tires are designed to ease transitions to higher categories, but driver feedback remains mixed. Tramnitz posted impressive lap times even on older tires, while Câmara set the pace, closely followed by Boya. Among the top 10, only Giusti and Câmara are newcomers. The session ended with a red flag after Louis Sharp’s car stopped in an inconvenient position on the track.
With promising talents and new regulations, the 2025 Formula 3 season is shaping up to be an exciting one. The championship’s commitment to sustainability, along with a competitive grid, sets the stage for a thrilling year ahead.
(foto via fiaformula3.com)