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Rookie Showcase: F1 Debutants Take Center Stage in Abu Dhabi FP1

Simon Monroy by Simon Monroy
December 6, 2024
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 4 mins read
0
Rookie Showcase: F1 Debutants Take Center Stage in Abu Dhabi FP1

Formula One F1 - Abu Dhabi Grand Prix - Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates - December 5, 2024 Ferrari's Charles Leclerc and Ferrari test driver Arthur Leclerc ahead of the grand prix REUTERS/Hamad I Mohammed

The final weekend of the 2024 Formula 1 season isn’t just about championship-deciding drama—it’s also a platform for future stars. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix FP1 session will feature multiple debutants, as teams complete their mandatory rookie driver allocations for the season.

F1 regulations require each team to run a rookie driver—defined as someone with no more than two Grand Prix starts—twice per season, giving young talents the chance to shine in motorsport’s elite class. Abu Dhabi’s unique schedule, with FP1 and FP3 running in daytime heat and the competitive sessions at sunset, makes the first practice an ideal testing ground for these prospects.


Key Rookie Appearances

McLaren: Ryo Hirakawa

McLaren, the current leader in the constructors’ championship, will field Ryo Hirakawa in his F1 debut. The 30-year-old Toyota-backed driver has served as McLaren’s reserve throughout the season. His dual appearance for both McLaren in FP1 and Haas during the post-race test highlights his growing involvement in F1 after a successful career in Super Formula and endurance racing.


Ferrari: Arthur Leclerc

Ferrari will make history by featuring Arthur Leclerc, the younger brother of team regular Charles Leclerc. Arthur takes over Carlos Sainz’s car, marking the first time two siblings have been teammates in Formula 1. As a member of Ferrari’s driver academy, Arthur’s debut is an emotional and symbolic moment for the Scuderia, underscoring their investment in nurturing young talent.


Red Bull: Isack Hadjar

Red Bull has handed Isack Hadjar his second FP1 appearance, with the French-Algerian talent stepping into Max Verstappen’s car. Hadjar is not just a rookie on the rise but also a contender for the Formula 2 championship, sitting just half a point behind leader Gabriel Bortoleto heading into the Abu Dhabi finale. Red Bull’s choice to spotlight Hadjar reinforces rumors that he’s a frontrunner to replace Sergio Perez in 2025.


Aston Martin: Felipe Drugovich

Aston Martin continues to develop Felipe Drugovich, the 2022 Formula 2 champion, by granting him another FP1 session. Taking over from Lance Stroll, Drugovich aims to solidify his readiness for a future F1 seat as Aston Martin looks to maximize their investment in his talent.


Williams: Luke Browning

In a move brimming with promise, Williams will give Luke Browning his first FP1 run. The 22-year-old Briton impressed in Formula 3 this year, finishing third in the championship before stepping up to Formula 2 late in the season. Browning’s rapid ascent makes him one to watch as Williams continues to identify and cultivate emerging talent.


AlphaTauri: Ayumu Iwasa

At AlphaTauri, Ayumu Iwasa returns for his second FP1 session of the season, replacing Yuki Tsunoda. The Japanese driver, who already showcased his skills at the Japanese Grand Prix, is on Red Bull’s radar as a potential future asset, especially with AlphaTauri serving as a proving ground for RB juniors.


The Bigger Picture

Abu Dhabi’s FP1 offers a unique glimpse into F1’s future, with teams showcasing their developmental investments. The presence of three debutants—Hirakawa, Arthur Leclerc, and Browning—alongside seasoned rookies like Hadjar, Drugovich, and Iwasa highlights the depth of talent waiting to break into the sport.

As F1 evolves, these sessions provide invaluable exposure for young drivers while giving teams insights into their long-term potential. Whether it’s a sibling making history at Ferrari, a championship contender at Red Bull, or a fresh face at Williams, the Abu Dhabi GP’s FP1 is a showcase of ambition, skill, and the relentless pursuit of F1 glory.

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