The Drivers Gala

The 2025 Formula One season was formally brought to an end at the FIA Drivers’ Gala, where the sports leading figures gathered to reflect on a year defined by intense competition and a shifting competitive order. The ceremony served as Formula One’s official moment of closure, honoring the drivers and teams who shaped the championship battle from the opening race to the final lap.

World Championship

Lando Norris capped off an extraordinary 2025 Formula One season on Friday night at the Drivers Gala where he was formally presented with The World Drivers Championship Trophy, marking him as the 35th Formula One World Champion and the first British champion since 2020. Norris clinched the title by only a tight, two point margin over Max Verstappen.  He was joined on stage by Oscar Piastri, and Max Verstappen couldn't attend due to sickness (He sent a video congratulating Lando on a great season along with the rest of McLaren). Piastri and Verstappen were recognized for finishing second and third in the Drivers’ Championship. Their presence highlighted just how closely contested the season had been, with the title fight remaining alive until the final round. 

More Drivers Recognized

Several drivers were recognized for finishing in the top positions of the Drivers’ Championship, with trophies presented to those who secured second and third overall. Beyond Formula One, the gala celebrated achievements across FIA sanctioned championships, like the official FIA rookie of the year went to a Formula 3 rookie, Rafael Câmara. Drivers shared the stage with champions from Formula 2, Formula 3, endurance racing, rallying, and electric series, emphasizing the global scope of FIA competition.

The gala also served as a moment of reflection for the wider grid. Drivers such as  Alex Albon, Pierre Gasly, Esteban Ocon, and Carlos Sainz were present as representatives of a fiercely competitive midfield. We saw williams for the first time in a decade, have both drivers finish in the top 10 in the driver standings. We saw rookie drivers complete their first ever Formula One season, proving themselves highly capable of being F1 drivers

A Sweet Ending

The final trophies were presented, and atmosphere shifted from celebration to anticipation. With the 2025 season officially complete, the FIA Drivers’ Gala marked both an ending and a beginning. For some drivers, it closed a career defining year. For others, it signaled unfinished business heading into the next chapter. We saw many highs and lows this season, and now its time to prepare for the next chapter of Formula One.