The Bahrain Grand Prix is set to feature an exciting lineup of rookie drivers in the first practice session (FP1). Six teams have announced their plans to give young drivers a chance to get behind the wheel, fulfilling the FIA’s requirement for rookie drivers to participate in at least four practice sessions this season ¹.
Rookie Drivers in FP1
Dino Beganovic (Ferrari): Replacing Charles Leclerc, Beganovic will make his Ferrari debut in FP1.
Frederik Vesti (Mercedes): Vesti will take over George Russell’s seat for the session.
Felipe Drugovich (Aston Martin): Drugovich will drive in place of Fernando Alonso.
Luke Browning (Williams): Browning will replace Carlos Sainz in FP1.
Ryo Hirakawa (Haas): Hirakawa will make his debut for Haas, replacing Oliver Bearman.
Ayumu Iwasa (Red Bull): Iwasa will take Max Verstappen’s seat for the session.
Other Notable Drivers
Keep an eye on other young drivers making their way in F1, including:
Oliver Bearman
Jack Doohan
Kimi Antonelli
Gabriel Bortoleto
Isack Hadjar
Liam Lawson
These drivers will be looking to make an impression and prove their skills on the track. The Bahrain International Circuit, with its 15 turns, provides a challenging and exciting backdrop for their debuts ².
