Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc proved his resilience in the opening practice session of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend, overcoming early technical challenges to set the fastest lap in FP1. Clocking a 1:24.321, Leclerc edged out Lando Norris by two-tenths of a second, keeping Ferrari’s slim hopes alive in their pursuit of McLaren for the Constructors’ Championship.
Ferrari’s Early Scare: Leclerc’s Battery Drama
Leclerc’s session began on a frustrating note as a battery issue left his Ferrari SF-24 stranded in the garage for the first half of FP1. With Ferrari trailing McLaren by 21 points in the constructors’ standings, the scare threatened to derail their campaign before it even began. However, Leclerc’s eventual return to the track was nothing short of spectacular, as he put Ferrari back on top.
Brothers in Arms: Leclercs Make History
The session carried special significance for the Leclerc family, as Arthur Leclerc made his debut appearance in FP1 for Ferrari. This marked the first time in Formula 1 history that two brothers competed in an official session for the same team. Arthur, filling in as part of Ferrari’s rookie mandate, gained valuable track time while his elder brother stole the spotlight with the fastest lap.
McLaren vs. Ferrari: A Battle Intensifies
McLaren’s Lando Norris, buoyed by his team’s momentum, stayed hot on Leclerc’s heels, underlining the fierce battle set to unfold over the weekend. Ferrari must deliver flawless performances to overturn the 21-point deficit, and Leclerc’s pace offers a glimmer of hope.
FP1 Highlights: Rookie and Veteran Mix
The session featured notable debuts, including Jack Doohan in Alpine and Isack Hadjar in Red Bull. While Hadjar faced early hiccups with wheel clearance and a spin, Doohan impressed with competitive lap times and composure, locking up briefly but managing to run in the top 10 for much of the session.
Key Moments and Standings
- George Russell led the early pace for Mercedes, with teammate Lewis Hamilton joining him in the top two positions before Leclerc’s late charge.
- Hamilton and Norris had a close encounter on track, prompting a post-session review for potential impeding.
- Rookie Arthur Leclerc completed his first FP1 outing with steady laps, gaining invaluable experience under the Abu Dhabi lights.
What’s Next?
As Ferrari looks to capitalize on Leclerc’s blistering pace, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is shaping up to be a nail-biter for the constructors’ title. Meanwhile, the debutants and veterans alike are poised to deliver fireworks under the iconic Yas Marina twilight.
Stay tuned as FP2 approaches, with teams eager to gather crucial data for qualifying and the season’s dramatic finale.