Toto Wolff doesn't want to name Antonelli as the favorite for the F1 championship.

Mihelič predicts Pogačar would sit in front of TV every day if he won five three-day races in one season Formula One has entered a new technical era this year, introducing rules that have led to smaller, lighter cars with active aerodynamics and a completely different approach to energy management. These changes have altered the balance of power within the sport, bringing fresh dynamics to the competition. While the shift has sparked debate over how much technology still defines Formula One and where the line is drawn between innovation and the essence of racing itself, the results on track have been undeniable. Mercedes, once a dominant force, has found itself challenged by the emergence of young talent, particularly 19-year-old Italian driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli. After 11 races, Antonelli leads the standings with six victories, including wins in Shanghai, Suzuka, Miami, Montreal, Monaco, and Spa-Francorchamps. He holds a 50-point lead over second-placed Lewis Hamilton, who has struggled to match his former dominance. Meanwhile, other top contenders include George Russell, Charles Leclerc, and the newly crowned champion Lewis Hamilton, though the latter’s performance has been less consistent than in previous seasons. The new rules have also allowed teams like Ferrari to regain their footing, while McLaren, after a long period of struggle, has begun to make its mark following Land Norris' victory in Hungary. The transformation in Formula One has not gone unnoticed by longtime observers. Niko Mihelič, one of Slovenia's foremost experts on the sport, has followed the evolution of Formula One since 1970, when he first watched a race in Zeltweg. Over the decades, he has witnessed the sport’s many transformations, from black-and-white television broadcasts to today’s high-tech environment. In recent conversations, Mihelič reflected on the current state of the sport, acknowledging both the challenges posed by the new regulations and the potential they offer for exciting racing. He noted that the changes have significantly altered the style of racing. Drivers now manage energy more carefully throughout the race, releasing it strategically when needed. This has led to longer, more strategic races, where even small differences can determine the outcome. However, these changes have also drawn criticism, notably from Max Verstappen, who argues that the focus on efficiency has taken away from the raw excitement of traditional racing. According to Mihelič, such shifts are not uncommon in Formula One history. From the introduction of six-cylinder engines to the ground-effect era, each change has brought new challenges and opportunities. Despite the controversy, Mihelič believes the new rules have also created some remarkable moments. For instance, he highlights the complexity of modern drivers’ responsibilities, managing tire compounds, aerodynamic settings, and energy recovery systems all during high-speed laps. He admires the level of skill required to navigate these demands, calling it a testament to the evolving nature of motorsport. At the same time, he acknowledges that the sport must continue to find a balance between technological advancement and the pure thrill of competition. As the season progresses, the impact of these rule changes will likely become even clearer. With teams adapting to the new parameters, the competition could see further shifts in leadership and strategy. Whether the new era brings more thrilling racing or simply a different kind of spectacle remains to be seen. What is certain, however, is that Formula One continues to evolve, driven by the relentless pursuit of speed, innovation, and excellence.