Red Bull has confirmed that Japanese driver Ayumu Iwasa will take part in the opening practice session of this weekend’s Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Iwasa will temporarily replace Isack Hadjar for the first free practice session (FP1), marking another important step in his development within the Red Bull driver programme.
The 24-year-old will drive the RB22 alongside reigning world champion Max Verstappen, giving him valuable track time in a current Formula 1 car. His appearance will also help Red Bull comply with the FIA regulation requiring teams to field rookie drivers in a number of free practice sessions throughout the season. Every team must provide opportunities for less experienced drivers during FP1 sessions, and Iwasa’s outing represents one of Red Bull’s required rookie appearances for 2026.
Barcelona has become a popular venue for teams to complete these rookie driver obligations due to the extensive knowledge teams already possess of the circuit. Engineers and drivers are highly familiar with the track characteristics after years of testing and racing there, reducing the risks associated with replacing a regular driver for a practice session.
This year’s situation has made Barcelona an even more attractive option. The cancellation of the Bahrain Grand Prix earlier in the season removed what many teams viewed as an ideal opportunity to run rookie drivers. As a result, several teams have chosen the Spanish Grand Prix weekend to give reserve and development drivers a chance behind the wheel.
Iwasa will not be the only newcomer taking part in FP1. A number of teams have confirmed rookie appearances for the session, creating one of the busiest practice periods for young talent this season. Cadillac will field American driver Colton Herta, while McLaren has selected Formula 2 standout Leonardo Fornaroli. Mercedes will hand driving duties to reserve driver Fred Vesti, Williams will run Luke Browning, and Audi has confirmed Paul Aron for the opening session.
With at least six of the 11 Formula 1 teams making changes to their line-ups for FP1, fans will have the opportunity to watch several promising young drivers showcase their abilities on a Grand Prix weekend.
Iwasa has steadily built an impressive racing résumé. He enjoyed a strong campaign in Formula 2 in 2023, finishing fourth in the championship standings against a highly competitive field. Following his F2 season, he returned to Japan to compete in the Super Formula series, where he continued to impress with his speed and consistency.
His performances culminated in winning the 2025 Super Formula championship, further strengthening his reputation as one of Japan’s most promising racing talents. Alongside his domestic racing commitments, Iwasa has maintained close ties with the Red Bull programme, serving as a test and reserve driver for Racing Bulls.
He already has experience participating in several Formula 1 practice sessions and has also taken part in post-season rookie tests. This latest opportunity with Red Bull’s senior team gives him another valuable chance to demonstrate his capabilities at the highest level of motorsport and potentially strengthen his case for a future full-time Formula 1 seat.
