Rookie Drivers Get FP1 Opportunities at Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix

The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya will host an exciting first practice session as seven of this season's Formula 1 teams give their rookie drivers a taste of the action. As per regulations, each full-time driver must step aside for a rookie twice per season, and this Friday's session is the perfect opportunity for teams to make those changes.

Fred Vesti – Mercedes Leading the charge for Mercedes is Fred Vesti, who will replace the standings frontrunner, Kimi Antonelli. Vesti has been with the team for over five years, honing his skills and eyeing full-time seats with other teams. However, for now, he is focused on endurance racing in the IMSA SportsCar Championship.

Dino Beganovic – Ferrari Dino Beganovic, a member of Ferrari's Driver Academy since 2020, will step into Lewis Hamilton's shoes for FP1. Currently sixth in the Formula 2 standings, Beganovic comes to Spain fresh from a podium finish in Monaco, adding another experience to his growing resume.

Leonardo Fornaroli – McLaren Leonardo Fornaroli, the reigning F2 champion, will make his FP1 debut with McLaren, driving Lando Norris's car. The young Italian has tested McLaren's previous cars at Barcelona, but this outing will be his first with the 2026 model.

Ayumu Iwasa – Red Bull Ayumu Iwasa will take on FP1 duties at Red Bull, stepping in for Isack Hadjar. Iwasa is no stranger to Friday practice sessions, having already participated in five. He juggles his commitments with Red Bull alongside racing in Japan’s Super Formula series, where he is currently second in the standings.

Luke Browning – Williams Williams will have Luke Browning replace Alex Albon for this practice session. Browning, who has four FP1 sessions under his belt, continues to split his time between Williams' simulator work and competing in Super Formula.

Paul Aron – Audi Though officially an Alpine reserve driver, Paul Aron will take Nico Hulkenberg's place at Audi for FP1. Aron has made multiple appearances in practice sessions, including a debut with Sauber in 2025, and continues to support Alpine's efforts.

Colton Herta – Cadillac Lastly, making his FP1 debut is Colton Herta, stepping in for Sergio Perez at Cadillac. Herta, known for his IndyCar exploits, has transitioned to F2 and is eager to make an impression in F1. He plans to use this session as a stepping stone for more appearances throughout the season.

These young drivers are set to showcase their talents and gain valuable experience at one of the sport's most iconic circuits, setting the stage for a thrilling weekend in Barcelona.