Former F1 driver Jacques Villeneuve has warned all 10 groups {that a} main determination should be made by all this yr.
The upcoming season is the final beneath the present rules earlier than the introduction of one of many greatest modifications in F1 historical past subsequent yr.
It will likely be the primary marketing campaign beneath the brand new energy unit rules, with the groups solely in a position to work on creating the automobile since January 1.
The final expectation is that almost all groups will change focus to subsequent yr near mid-season, nonetheless, that would change for the main outfits if a title is on the playing cards.
Deciding to sacrifice this yr for a powerful 2026 is a big determination for any crew to make, with the 1997 champion stating that it is just an issue due to the price range cap.
“It is harmful as a result of the expectations are so excessive for this 2025 season,” Villeneuve informed The Motion Community.
“We had such an incredible second half of the season in 2024. And it was stunning. It was not anticipated. How all of the forces converged to provide us an incredible finish of the season.
“This yr needs to be a continuation of that as a result of loads of efforts and assets will likely be put into 2026 and ‘25 needs to be an evolution of ‘24.
“I do not see a crew reinventing the wheel only for one season. It might have occurred previously earlier than the price range cap, however now with the price range cap, it’s worthwhile to decide.”
In Villeneuve’s eyes, a giant crew can afford to have an terrible begin to the brand new energy unit rules, however provided that it wins this yr’s championship.
“Successful in 2025 means you’ll be able to afford to have a foul 2026,” added the Canadian. “It is nonetheless a championship.
“It’s not a silly strategy to go both. If you happen to assume that each different crew will give attention to 2026 and you will be the one one which’s placing all of your balls into 2025, then why not?”
