Rookies Set for FP1 Debuts in Mexico
Eight Rookie Drivers to Participate in Mexico City Grand Prix
The upcoming Mexico City Grand Prix will feature a total of eight rookie drivers participating in the first practice session on Friday. McLaren, Mercedes, Ferrari, Red Bull, Williams, Haas, Alpine, and Aston Martin have all announced line-up changes for this crucial session, marking an important step for aspiring Formula 1 competitors.
According to current regulations within Formula 1, each full-time driver must give way to a rookie—defined as a driver who has participated in no more than two Grand Prix races—in two practice sessions across the season. In a notable change from the previous year, this requirement has increased from one to two sessions, offering rookies more opportunities to gain valuable experience.
The Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez has been a popular venue for rookie outings, highlighted by five rookies participating in last year’s practice session. This year’s event promises to build on that legacy.
Pato O’Ward – McLaren
McLaren reserve driver Pato O’Ward is set to drive in front of his home crowd for the second consecutive year. The Mexican driver, who finished as the runner-up in the 2025 NTT INDYCAR SERIES, will be behind the wheel of the MCL39. Confirmed for this outing back in May, O’Ward aims to not only gain track time but also provide critical setup feedback for full-time drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.
Fred Vesti – Mercedes
Fred Vesti will step in for George Russell during the FP1 session at Mercedes. This marks Vesti’s fourth practice appearance for the team. Having debuted in Mexico in 2023 and participated in practice sessions later that year, Vesti is familiar with the expectations and challenges ahead. In addition to his duties with Mercedes, the 23-year-old Dane has been actively competing in the IMSA Sportscar series, where he recently celebrated back-to-back victories.
Antonio Fuoco – Ferrari
Ferrari will see Antonio Fuoco making his first practice appearance in Mexico City, taking over the SF-25 from Lewis Hamilton. Fuoco, who serves as a development driver for the team, races in the World Endurance Championship with Ferrari AF Corse and was part of the team that won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2024. He previously participated in F1 testing sessions, including last year’s end-of-season test in Abu Dhabi.
Arvid Lindblad – Red Bull
Arvid Lindblad, currently competing in Formula 2, will participate in his second FP1 for Red Bull, having replaced Max Verstappen for this session. The British driver previously drove the RB21 during the British Grand Prix weekend. As the Formula 2 season nears its conclusion, Lindblad is positioned seventh in the Drivers’ Championship with three podiums, including two victories.
Luke Browning – Williams
Williams will hand over the FW47 to Luke Browning, who is set to participate in his third FP1 outing. Browning, a member of the Williams Racing Driver Academy, has previously driven in Bahrain and Abu Dhabi. Currently competing in Formula 2, he holds third place in the Drivers’ standings, showcasing his potential in the sport.
Jak Crawford – Aston Martin
Aston Martin will feature Jak Crawford, marking his debut in an F1 weekend as he takes over Lance Stroll’s AMR25. With over 2,000 kilometers of testing logged in various Aston Martin cars, Crawford brings considerable experience to the team. The 20-year-old American has also secured four victories in the ongoing Formula 2 campaign, placing him second in the championship standings.
Ryo Hirakawa – Haas
At Haas, reserve driver Ryo Hirakawa will replace Ollie Bearman for FP1. This will be Hirakawa’s fourth practice session of the season. Initially part of the Alpine stable, he moved to Haas in April and has since made appearances in Bahrain and Barcelona. He is expected to participate in the opening practice hour at the season finale in Abu Dhabi as well.
Paul Aron – Alpine
Finally, Paul Aron will take the wheel of the Alpine A525 during the first practice session. The Estonian driver, who finished third in the Formula 2 championship last year, will replace Pierre Gasly for this outing. This marks Aron’s fourth FP1 appearance of the season, which includes stints for Sauber and Alpine at various venues. Team principal Flavio Briatore has indicated that this weekend could be pivotal for Aron’s future, as he is considered a strong candidate for a race seat next year.
Published on 1761072864 • Category: Formula 1