The 2025 Saudi Arabian GP is right around the corner, and the excitement in the Formula 1 world is hitting new peaks. This year, the Formula 1 calendar brings even more drama, speed, and strategy to Jeddah’s iconic Corniche Circuit. With the Gulf region growing as a hub for motorsports, fans in Kuwait, the UAE, and across the Middle East are tuning in with more passion than ever.
As we gear up for the highly anticipated night race on the shores of the Red Sea, here are the five biggest storylines to watch at the 2025 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.
1. Can Max Verstappen Continue His Dominance?
One of the biggest questions leading into the Saudi Arabian GP is whether Max Verstappen can extend his dominant form. The three-time world champion has already taken multiple wins this season and looks nearly unstoppable.
Red Bull Racing has optimized its car for high-speed circuits, and Jeddah is one of the fastest street tracks on the calendar. The long straights and high-speed corners suit Verstappen’s aggressive style perfectly. But with rivals closing the gap, a single mistake could cost him the win. Will the Saudi GP be another feather in his cap, or will someone finally break his streak?
2. Mercedes vs Ferrari: The Midfield Battle Heats Up
Although Red Bull still leads the championship, the real fight this season has been between Mercedes and Ferrari. With both teams introducing new aerodynamic upgrades at the last two races, the 2025 Saudi Arabian GP could be the battleground that determines who leads the charge behind Red Bull.
Charles Leclerc has shown consistent pace, while George Russell and Lewis Hamilton have been fighting hard to bring Mercedes back into title contention. The narrow margins in qualifying could mean that the smallest setup change or strategy call might make the difference.
This fight isn’t just about podiums—it’s about pride, development, and momentum going into the heart of the season.
3. Saudi GP: A Homecoming for Regional F1 Fans
Formula 1 is rapidly gaining popularity across the Gulf region. With the Jeddah Corniche Circuit offering breathtaking views and world-class infrastructure, the Saudi Arabian GP is becoming a centerpiece event for fans in Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, and beyond.
This race isn’t just a sporting spectacle—it’s a regional celebration. Local fans will be turning out in record numbers, and many from Kuwait are expected to travel to Jeddah for the race weekend. The growing enthusiasm for Formula 1 in the Middle East is helping transform the sport’s global identity, and the Saudi GP is leading that charge.
4. Rookie Watch: Can Ollie Bearman Impress Again?
The 2025 season has seen a new generation of drivers making their mark, and one name that stands out is Ollie Bearman. The young British driver, stepping in as a full-time Formula 1 rookie this year, has already shown flashes of brilliance.
His fearless racing style and quick adaptation to the car have impressed fans and teams alike. The high-speed Jeddah circuit will be a true test of his nerves, especially under the lights. Can he handle the pressure? A top-10 finish at the Saudi Arabian GP would solidify his place as one of F1’s rising stars.
5. Will Strategy or Safety Cars Decide the Winner?
One thing that makes the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix truly unpredictable is the high likelihood of safety cars. With narrow barriers, high speeds, and limited runoff areas, crashes and safety car periods have been a common feature since the race debuted in 2021.
That makes strategy incredibly important. Teams will need to think on their feet—should they pit early under a virtual safety car or wait for a full safety car window? Tire management is also crucial, especially given the abrasive surface and temperature shifts after sunset.
In such a chaotic and dynamic environment, the smartest team may beat the fastest car.
Bonus: Weather and Track Conditions in the Gulf
The Saudi Arabian GP is one of the few Formula 1 races held at night, making temperature and track conditions vastly different from day-time events. While Gulf countries like Kuwait experience intense daytime heat, evenings on the Red Sea coast tend to be cooler, which affects tire grip and engine performance.
Pirelli’s tire choices will be key, and how teams manage tire degradation will play a big role in race results. Expect surprises in the latter half of the race, especially if temperatures drop faster than expected.
Final Thoughts: The Saudi Arabian GP Is Now a Must-Watch
The 2025 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix promises all the thrills that F1 fans love—high-speed duels, bold overtakes, fierce rivalries, and nail-biting strategies. For fans in the Gulf region, especially in Kuwait, this is more than just a race—it’s a moment of regional pride and celebration.
As Formula 1 continues to grow in the Middle East, the Saudi GP is becoming a cornerstone of the calendar, showcasing the region’s passion for motorsports on a global stage.
So buckle up, F1 fans. Whether you’re watching from the grandstands in Jeddah or tuning in from your home in Kuwait, this year’s Saudi Arabian GP is shaping up to be an unforgettable chapter in the 2025 season.
Sweb Alam is the founder of AutoVeda, covering the latest car news, reviews, and trends with a focus on the Gulf region. He’s passionate about automobiles and aims to keep readers informed and inspired
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