Six Rookie Drivers to Feature in FP1 at… Read More
The opening free practice session (FP1) at the Bahrain Grand Prix will see a significant shake-up on the Formula 1 grid, as six rookie drivers step in to gain valuable track time. In line with F1 regulations, each team must allocate at least two FP1 sessions per car per season to drivers with limited experience, providing young talents a chance to showcase their skills in a real Grand Prix weekend setting.
This Friday at the Bahrain International Circuit, more than a quarter of the F1 grid will be composed of these rookies. Among them, only one driver will be making his debut FP1 appearance—Swedish driver Dino Beganovic, who will take the place of Charles Leclerc at Ferrari. Beganovic, currently competing in Formula 2 after two seasons in F3 (where he finished sixth in the standings twice), is considered a promising talent within Ferrari’s driver development program.
Reigning world champion Max Verstappen will also be absent from FP1, handing over his Red Bull RB21 to Ayumu Iwasa. Iwasa, who currently leads the Super Formula championship in Japan, will get a significant opportunity to prove himself in top machinery. This marks an important moment for Iwasa, who has long been on Red Bull’s radar as a potential future F1 driver.
At Mercedes, Frederik Vesti will return to the cockpit for the first time since the end of the 2023 season. He will replace George Russell for the session. Vesti, who has been part of the Mercedes junior program, has shown steady progress and is looking to solidify his credentials with more mileage in a top-tier car.
Felipe Drugovich, the 2022 Formula 2 champion, will also feature in FP1, driving for Aston Martin. Drugovich has already built a solid relationship with the team and is frequently called upon to support development and testing duties. His participation in Bahrain further strengthens his case as a reliable reserve or potential future race driver.
Ryo Hirakawa, fresh off an FP1 session with Alpine at Suzuka, will now drive for Haas in Bahrain. This appearance is the first of four scheduled FP1 outings for the Japanese driver this season. Hirakawa’s adaptability and experience in endurance racing have made him a versatile asset, and Haas will be keen to see what he can bring to the table.
Completing the rookie lineup is Luke Browning, who returns to FP1 duties with Williams. Browning previously made his FP1 debut in Abu Dhabi last year, and his performance there has earned him another chance to gain experience at the top level.
This influx of new talent adds an extra layer of excitement to the Bahrain GP weekend and highlights Formula 1’s commitment to developing the next generation of racing stars.
