The Formula 1 grid this year is adorned with several rookies, although the exact number remains unclear. A handful of drivers are embarking on their first full seasons in the sport, despite having some prior experience at this level.

Liam Lawson, for instance, is launching his first F1 campaign but has already competed in 11 races in the category during two temporary stints. He's not alone.

Oliver Bearman, who filled in once for Ferrari and twice for Haas last year, is commencing his first full season with the latter in 2025. Jack Doohan, an Alpine driver, kick-started his F1 career by participating in the final race of last season, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

There are also a few who will truly be experiencing their first taste of F1 racing in 2025. Andrea Kimi Antonelli is set to make his debut in Melbourne on March 16 after being chosen by Mercedes to fill the seat left vacant by Lewis Hamilton, while Gabriel Bortoleto and Isack Hadjar are the other two undisputed rookies.

However, there is certainly a debate over whether the others can be classified as rookies. This was reflected shortly after the Sky Sports coverage of pre-season testing began on Wednesday, when commentator David Croft and pit lane reporter Ted Kravitz delved into the discussion.

Sky F1's Kravitz sparked a debate by drawing a line on what defines a rookie in the sport, declaring: "I'm sorry - Antonelli, Hadjar and Bortoleto are the only true rookies, because they haven't done a Grand Prix. All the others have done a Grand Prix."

In response, Croft challenged: "So once you've done a Grand Prix, you're not a rookie anymore? " to which Kravitz affirmed: "In my book, yes. If you want to call it a 'seasoned rookie', then I'm with you Crofty.

"But a true rookie, as in they've never done a Grand Prix before, then Kimi Antonelli, Gabriel Bortoleto and Isack Hadjar - am I missing anyone else? Doohan's done one, Lawson has done loads, Bearman has done loads."

Croft wasn't easily swayed and retorted: "But to me, get a season under your belt. You are entitled to go for the rookie cup - and they should have a rookie cup this year for the best rookie - if you haven't completed a full season."

Despite Kravitz reaffirming his stance, Croft amusingly concluded: "I love this. What are we Ted, 45 minutes into the first day and we've already got our first disagreement? Brilliant."