Rookie Drivers Shine at Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix offers a platform for rookie drivers to gain their first competitive experience in Formula 1 during the opening practice session. Teams are obligated to provide two outings for rookie drivers each season, and this race presents a prime opportunity for them to do so. Noteworthy debuts include Arthur Leclerc with Ferrari, Ryo Hirakawa with McLaren, and Luke Browning for Williams, while Isack Hadjar steps in for Max Verstappen at Red Bull. Other participants such as Felipe Drugovich and Ayumu Iwasa will also make their returns after previous outings.

As the oldest of the group, Ryo Hirakawa is a reserve driver for McLaren, while Arthur Leclerc marks a special milestone as he competes alongside his brother, Charles Leclerc, at Ferrari. Isack Hadjar and Ayumu Iwasa strive to make their mark within the Red Bull camp, and both have aspirations of progressing further in their racing careers. Meanwhile, Drugovich from Aston Martin and Browning from Williams hope to impress during this critical practice session. Beginning next season, the requirement for rookie outings will increase to four per season, reflecting the teams' commitment to nurturing emerging talents in the sport.