In a shocking turn of events, the Bahrain FP1 session is set to be dominated by rookies, with a total of five newcomers taking the stage. Following the footsteps of Beganovic, Vesti, Hirakawa, and Drugovich, the latest addition to the rookie lineup is none other than Luke Browning.
Luke Browning, the reigning F3 champion, will be representing Williams in this thrilling session. This makes Williams the fifth team to introduce a rookie driver for the FP1 in Bahrain, shaking up the grid with fresh talent and ambition. Browning, currently competing in F2 with Hitech GP, has already showcased his skills by clinching a podium in the Sprint Race in Australia.
Despite his young age, Browning is no stranger to the F1 scene, having previously participated in the FP1 in Abu Dhabi 2024, also with Williams. To prepare for the Bahrain session and the upcoming Formula 2 championship, Browning recently tested the FW45 at Monza alongside Victor Martins, a newcomer to the Grove Academy.
Browning expressed his excitement about the opportunity, stating, “Having another chance to drive in a free practice session with Williams is a dream come true. I am gaining more confidence every time I get behind the wheel.” His main goal for the FP1 session is to familiarize himself with the Formula 1 procedures and environment, building on the experience gained in Abu Dhabi last December.
The Bahrain FP1 promises to be an electrifying spectacle, with the young guns like Luke Browning ready to make their mark on the track. Stay tuned as these rookies set the stage on fire with their determination and talent, challenging the established order in the world of Formula 1.