Photo: Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has become a traditional stage for showcasing rookie talent in Formula 1, with many teams using the opportunity to fulfill their mandatory rookie FP1 sessions.
This year, five promising talents will step into the spotlight, including three making their competitive F1 debuts.
Arthur Leclerc, younger brother of Ferrari star Charles Leclerc, will get his chance to shine with the Scuderia. A promising driver in his own right, Arthur has showcased his abilities in the junior categories, demonstrating consistency and determination in Formula 3. His FP1 session with Ferrari is an important step in his journey to potentially joining the elite ranks of F1. This moment also makes the Leclerc brothers to be the first ones in the F1 history to compete in a session as teammates.
Rio Hirakawa, known for his success in endurance racing, will step into a McLaren for the opening session. The Japanese driver is a standout in the World Endurance Championship, where he became a Le Mans winner. His transition to F1 testing signals McLaren’s willingness to explore versatile talents, particularly as Hirakawa brings a wealth of racing experience to the table.
Luke Browning, who finished third in the Formula 3 champion, will represent Williams as part of their academy. Known for his raw pace and impressive overtaking skills, Browning has been on a rapid ascent through the junior ranks. This FP1 outing will be a crucial moment for the young Brit.
Isack Hadjar, a French-Algerian rising star, will replace Max Verstappen at Red Bull for the session. With strong performances in Formula 2 and a growing reputation as a future F1 driver, Hadjar is being closely linked to a full-time seat in 2025. This outing will be an opportunity for him to showcase his potential in a championship-winning car.
Felipe Drugovich, the 2022 Formula 2 champion, will again take the wheel for Aston Martin. Drugovich has already impressed in previous FP1 sessions, and this appearance underscores his growing association with the team, positioning him as a key reserve and development driver.
Ayumu Iwasa, a standout in the Red Bull Junior Team, will also return for another FP1 session, this time with the senior team. Known for his strong racecraft and consistency in F2, Iwasa has continued to prove himself as a serious contender for future F1 opportunities, making him one to watch.
PART OF TICKETSGP GROUP
F1 and MotoGP news
New articles every day
News from around the world
Reports from races
TicketsGP, s.r.o.
Nové Sady 988/2
602 00, Brno, Czechia
CZ14176262
European Union
We have established partnerships with circuits, organizers, and official partners. As we do not collaborate directly with the owner of the Formula 1 licensing, it is necessary for us to include the following statement:
This website is unofficial and is not associated in any way with the Formula 1 companies. F1, FORMULA ONE, FORMULA 1, FIA FORMULA ONE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP, GRAND PRIX and related marks are trade marks of Formula One Licensing B.V.