Major F1 stars ABSENT as 2025 lineup announced

Major F1 stars ABSENT as 2025 lineup announced

The 2025 Formula 1 season is shaping up to be a groundbreaking year, not only because of key driver and regulation changes but also due to an exciting new partnership with global toy company Mattel. This collaboration will introduce a new line of Hot Wheels cars inspired by eight of the current F1 teams, offering fans an immersive way to engage with the sport. With less than two months until the Australian Grand Prix kicks off the season, this new collection has already sparked significant interest.

The Hot Wheels F1 collection, which is available for pre-order, showcases intricately designed cars replicating the liveries and Pirelli tires of leading teams such as Red Bull and McLaren, the reigning Constructors’ champions. However, Ferrari and Aston Martin fans might be disappointed to see that these two teams are not included in the initial lineup. Alongside the cars, the range also features F1-themed track sets, allowing fans to recreate high-speed races at home. These additions are expected to enhance the experience for racing enthusiasts of all ages.

Formula 1 has also announced that Hot Wheels will feature prominently at various race weekends during the 2025 season, offering interactive fan activations to engage families and bring them closer to the sport. These activations will be present at selected Grands Prix, providing unique experiences for attendees. Emily Prazer, Formula 1’s Chief Commercial Officer, expressed excitement about the collaboration, highlighting the significance of the Hot Wheels F1 collection. She stated, “It’s fantastic to see the Hot Wheels Formula 1 collection begin to hit the shelves around the world. We want to drive our fans’ passion for racing, and these superbly and intricately designed cars will allow them to experience the drama and excitement of Formula 1 in the palm of their hands at home.”

In line with the excitement surrounding the collaboration, Roberto Stanichi, Mattel’s Executive Vice President and Global Head of Vehicles and Building Sets, shared his enthusiasm for the partnership. “The spirited response from fans around the world following our Hot Wheels and Formula 1 announcement has been thrilling. The next phase of the partnership is all about giving fans the products and experiences that bring the worlds of Hot Wheels and F1 together in a way that has never been done before, and we’re just getting started,” he said.

The Hot Wheels announcement is just one of many exciting developments for Formula 1 in 2025. Another major talking point is Lewis Hamilton’s highly anticipated debut season with Ferrari, a move that has generated considerable buzz among fans. Hamilton’s transition to Ferrari marks a significant moment in his career, and his performance during the season is likely to capture global attention. This season will also be the final one before major regulation changes come into play in 2026, which makes it a transitional period for the sport as teams and drivers prepare for the future.

In addition to the Hot Wheels partnership, Formula 1 has also partnered with LEGO, continuing to build on the success of their previous collaboration. The partnership will bring official F1-themed sets to fans, including the popular Speed Champions collection designed for younger builders and the more intricate Technic range aimed at experienced LEGO enthusiasts. These sets allow fans to recreate their favorite F1 cars and moments from the track, offering a creative outlet for those who want to build their dream race cars or replicate iconic machines from the sport.

Both the Hot Wheels and LEGO partnerships reflect Formula 1’s commitment to expanding its fan base and fostering a deeper connection with audiences. The collaborations are designed to engage fans in new and innovative ways, allowing them to experience the sport beyond the track. Whether it’s racing Hot Wheels replicas, building LEGO models, or following the on-track drama, these initiatives promise to enhance the fan experience and bring a fresh dimension to the sport.

As the 2025 season approaches, these partnerships, combined with the on-track excitement, are sure to make it a memorable year for Formula 1 fans around the world. With new products, fan experiences, and major driver changes, the 2025 season is poised to capture the imagination of racing enthusiasts like never before.