F1: An animated guide to the 2017 grid

Editor’s Note:

Story highlights

New F1 season starts March 26

Watch CNN's animated guide to the grid

CNN  — 

The new Formula One season is almost upon us, and the big change is at the front of the grid.

Out goes 2016 world champion Nico Rosberg; in comes Valtteri Bottas from Williams.

The flying Finn joins Mercedes and last year’s runner-up Lewis Hamilton, who will be determined to win a fourth F1 crown this season.

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Ice fishing with the Flying Finn
04:11 - Source: CNN

But that’s not all. Though Red Bull and Ferrari have stuck with their tried and tested pairings, last year’s surprise package Force India has replaced Renault-bound Nico Hulkenberg with Esteban Ocon.

The French driver impressed at the now-defunct Manor last season and will team up with “podium pushing” Sergio Pérez of Mexico.

Manor Racing drivers Pascal Wehrlein (left) and Esteban Ocon.
F1: Manor Racing duo's on fast track to success
03:04 - Source: CNN

With Bottas leaving Williams, Brazilian veteran Felipe Massa has postponed his retirement and returned to the British team. His experience will be vital alongside 18-year-old Canadian rookie Lance Stroll.

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Felipe Massa's top 5 F1 moments
01:40 - Source: CNN

Elsewhere, McLaren has bid farewell to 2009 world champion Jenson Button, which means rising Belgian star Stoffel Vandoorne steps in alongside two-time championship winner Fernando Alonso.

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Fernando Alonso: The makings of a champion
04:24 - Source: CNN

The Toro Rosso pairing of Daniil Kvyat and Carlos Sainz Jr. is unchanged, while American team Haas has welcomed Kevin Magnussen from Renault. The 24-year-old Dane replaces Mexico’s Esteban Gutiérrez, who has traded F1 for Formula E.

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F1 families: Like father, like son?
06:56 - Source: CNN

At Renault, Germany’s Hulkenberg joins Englishman Jolyon Palmer, who was retained after his rookie season with the French manufacturer.

Finally, Swiss team Sauber welcomes Pascal Wehrlein from Manor. The German will partner Sweden’s Marcus Ericsson.

Visit cnn.com/motorsport for more news and videos

The first grand prix of the 20-race season is in Australia on March 26.