Formula 1 enthusiasts selected Nico Hulkenberg’s first F1 podium as their most memorable moment of the 2025 season, with the driver’s achievement at the British Grand Prix prevailing in social media votes. The milestone, recognized on Facebook and Instagram, edged out other top events, including Lando Norris‘s drivers’ championship win, reflecting Hulkenberg’s impact on fans and the ongoing excitement surrounding his career.
Fan Polls Reveal Season’s Top Highlights
Throughout the voting period organized by Motorsport.com, fans were invited to choose from sixteen major moments of the 2025 Formula 1 campaign. The polling process unfolded over several days, employing elimination rounds that narrowed the selection down to two final contenders, before ultimately determining a winner through a public vote.
The range of moments up for consideration highlighted the diversity and unpredictability of the season. Among the events were the much-discussed drivers’ LEGO race in Miami, Carlos Sainz‘s strong finish at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, and McLaren securing the constructors’ championship. Dramatic incidents such as Oscar Piastri’s crash in Baku, Lewis Hamilton’s victory in the Chinese sprint, and Red Bull’s internal changes — including Christian Horner’s departure and a high-profile driver switch — also featured on the list.
Other notable moments that captured attention included Isack Hadjar’s breakthrough podium at the Dutch Grand Prix, McLaren’s Las Vegas double disqualification, the release of the highly anticipated F1 movie, and Andrea Kimi Antonelli’s achievement at the Canadian Grand Prix. Lando Norris’s journey to the drivers’ championship and the intense battle between Max Verstappen and George Russell at the Spanish Grand Prix further underscored the season’s adrenaline-filled narrative.
Hulkenberg’s British Grand Prix: An Unforgettable Triumph
The spotlight belonged to Nico Hulkenberg during a turbulent British Grand Prix marked by relentless rain and shifting track conditions. Starting from 19th on the grid, the German driver battled his way forward, ultimately securing third place and finally earning an F1 podium after a record-setting wait of 5,593 days. The emotional weight of the occasion was evident as he reflected on the journey following the race.
“It’s been an emotional roller coaster this weekend, being virtually last [on Saturday], so a pretty bad day to one of the best days of my career – it’s obviously a lot to take in,”
Hulkenberg shared after the race — Nico Hulkenberg, Driver.
“That race was intense, with all the changes of conditions, it was sketchy,”
he admitted, emphasizing the challenges faced that day — Nico Hulkenberg, Driver.
“While I’m happy and relieved, I’m mostly tired, and looking forward to getting home, to be honest,”
he concluded, capturing both exhilaration and exhaustion — Nico Hulkenberg, Driver.
For Hulkenberg, the achievement not only signified personal redemption but resonated with long-time supporters who celebrated his resilience and determination.
Lando Norris Edges Verstappen for Championship Glory
While Hulkenberg’s breakthrough drew widespread admiration, another defining storyline unfolded with Lando Norris securing his maiden F1 drivers’ championship. Facing fierce opposition from Max Verstappen, particularly during a late-season surge by Red Bull, Norris’s consistency and composure under pressure led to a dramatic season finale at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Although Verstappen claimed the race victory at Abu Dhabi, Norris’s third-place finish provided just enough points to clinch the title, edging out the Dutchman by a slim margin of two points. The intensity of the moment was clear as Norris addressed the press in the aftermath of his triumph.
“Oh God, I have not cried in a while,”
Norris said shortly after securing the championship — Lando Norris, Driver.
“It has been a long journey. I want to thank my guys, everyone at McLaren, my parents, my mum, my dad, they are the ones who have supported me since the beginning,”
he continued, acknowledging the support system that carried him through — Lando Norris, Driver.
Norris’s title not only marks a historic personal achievement, but also serves as a testament to the team effort and familial backing that propelled him to the top of motorsport.
Wider Impact and What Lies Ahead
The selection of Nico Hulkenberg first F1 podium as the season’s highlight underlines the powerful connection between athletes’ perseverance and fan appreciation. While Lando Norris’s title win represents the triumph of sustained effort, Hulkenberg’s long-overdue podium reveals the joy found in never giving up, resonating with both new and seasoned fans.
With the 2025 season now framed by these unforgettable stories, Formula 1 continues to showcase not only competition at its finest, but also the personal journeys behind the wheel. As fans look ahead, anticipation grows for what future seasons will bring — both in moments of sudden elation and in stories of steadfast pursuit.
