Ferrari announce driver change for Bahrain race weekend as youngster…read more
Ferrari has announced that 21-year-old Formula 2 driver Dino Beganovic will replace Charles Leclerc during the first practice session (FP1) at the upcoming Bahrain Grand Prix. This decision aligns with Formula 1 regulations requiring teams to field rookie drivers in FP1 sessions throughout the season.
The 2025 season has been challenging for Ferrari. After a disappointing opening race in Australia, the team faced a double disqualification in China, leaving them 61 points behind in the Constructors’ Championship after just two races. Despite these setbacks, Ferrari remains committed to nurturing young talent, as evidenced by their decision to give Beganovic this opportunity.
Dino Beganovic’s Racing Background
Dino Beganovic, a Swedish driver, joined the Ferrari Driver Academy in 2020. He secured the Formula Regional European Championship title in 2022. In Formula 3, Beganovic achieved two race victories over two seasons. Late in 2024, he advanced to Formula 2 with DAMS, earning a podium finish in Abu Dhabi and consistently placing within the top 10 during his four races. For the 2025 season, Beganovic has transitioned to Hitech Grand Prix in Formula 2.
Formula 1’s Rookie Driver Regulations
As of the 2025 season, Formula 1 mandates that each driver must relinquish their seat for two FP1 sessions to allow rookie drivers—those with no more than two Grand Prix starts—to participate. This regulation aims to provide emerging talents with valuable experience in F1 machinery during official race weekends.
Ferrari’s Season Performance and Outlook
Ferrari entered the 2025 season as joint favorites for the Constructors’ title alongside McLaren. However, their performance has fallen short of expectations. In the season opener in Australia, the team struggled, failing to secure a podium finish. The subsequent race in China proved even more challenging, with both cars being disqualified due to technical infringements, resulting in zero points from the event. These outcomes have placed Ferrari at a significant disadvantage in the championship standings.
Despite these early-season difficulties, Ferrari’s decision to field Beganovic in Bahrain’s FP1 demonstrates their commitment to long-term development and investment in young talent. By providing opportunities to academy drivers like Beganovic, Ferrari aims to build a robust foundation for future success.
Implications for Charles Leclerc and Team Dynamics
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari’s lead driver, will sit out FP1 in Bahrain to accommodate Beganovic’s participation. This move is in line with the team’s strategy to comply with F1’s rookie driver regulations while also assessing the potential of their junior drivers. Leclerc’s temporary absence from the session allows the team to gather data on Beganovic’s performance and adaptability to F1 machinery.
Leclerc has previously demonstrated strong performances at the Bahrain International Circuit. In the 2022 Bahrain Grand Prix, he secured pole position and showcased competitive pace throughout the weekend. His experience and feedback have been instrumental in Ferrari’s development efforts, and his collaboration with emerging talents like Beganovic could prove beneficial for the team’s overall growth.
Dino Beganovic’s Dual Commitments in Bahrain
Beganovic faces a demanding weekend in Bahrain, balancing his FP1 duties with his commitments in the Formula 2 championship. Competing for Hitech Grand Prix, he will need to manage the physical and mental demands of participating in both series during the same event. This dual role offers Beganovic a unique opportunity to showcase his versatility and endurance as a driver.
Conclusion
Ferrari’s decision to field Dino Beganovic in FP1 at the Bahrain Grand Prix underscores their dedication to developing young talent and adhering to Formula 1’s initiatives for rookie driver participation. While the team faces challenges in the 2025 season, integrating promising drivers like Beganovic into their Formula 1 program reflects a strategic approach aimed at long-term success. As the season progresses, Ferrari’s blend of experienced drivers and emerging talents will be pivotal in their quest to regain competitive standing in the championship.
