In a bold move shaking up the Formula 1 scene, Max Verstappen will be sidelined during the FP1 in Bahrain to make way for a rising star, Ayumu Iwasa. The Bahrain Grand Prix’s first free practice session is set to be a stage for fresh talent to shine, with the Red Bull team opting for an all-Japanese duo on the track.
Verstappen, a key figure in the championship battle, will take a back seat during FP1, allowing Iwasa to join Yuki Tsunoda on the track. This decision comes as teams gear up for the unique challenge of night Qualifying and Racing in Bahrain, under cooler temperatures than those expected during FP1 and FP3 sessions.
The Milton Keynes-based team’s choice to rest Verstappen and field Iwasa highlights the growing trend of teams using FP1 to provide young drivers with valuable track time. Red Bull is among six teams confirmed to introduce a fresh face during FP1, emphasizing the importance of nurturing future talent in the sport.
Joining Red Bull in this showcase of emerging talent are other top teams like Ferrari, Mercedes, Haas, Williams, and Aston Martin, each making strategic swaps to give promising young drivers a taste of the big leagues. This decision not only adds excitement to the FP1 session but also underscores the teams’ commitment to scouting and developing the Formula 1 stars of tomorrow.
