Formula 1 fans tuning into the opening practice session of the Austrian Grand Prix may be surprised to see Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz missing from the grid. However, neither driver is dealing with an injury, illness, or penalty.
Rather, Ferrari and Williams are among several teams that are running FP1 at the Red Bull Ring to meet the requirements of the new Formula 1, which stipulate that rookies must drive in the new generation of machinery.
Leclerc's Ferrari will be driven by Ferrari Driver Academy prospect Dino Beganovic, while Williams Academy driver Luke Browning takes over Sainz's car for the session.
Six Teams Hand FP1 Opportunities to Young Drivers
It's not just Ferrari and Williams that are making changes for FP1. Six teams have decided to use alternate drivers in the first hour of practice:
- Williams – Luke Browning replaces Carlos Sainz
- Haas – Ryo Hirakawa replaces Esteban Ocon
- Ferrari – Dino Beganovic replaces Charles Leclerc
- Aston Martin – Jak Crawford replaces Lance Stroll
- Audi – Paul Aron replaces Gabriel Bortoleto
- Racing Bulls – Ayumu Iwasa replaces Liam Lawson
One name that is being discussed is Beganovic, who is still working his way up the ranks at Ferrari and is one of the Scuderia's best prospects.
(Photo by Rudy Carezzevoli/Getty Images)
Browning also comes in with big expectations. The Brit has impressed in his youth and is one of the most promising talents in the Williams Academy program. Audi's Paul Aron receives another opportunity to showcase his abilities.
Japanese driver Ryo Hirakawa gets more Formula 1 experience with Haas. American prospect Jak Crawford is getting some good track time at Aston Martin. Meanwhile, Racing Bulls will give Ayumu Iwasa another opportunity to showcase his pace in Red Bull's development system.
Neither Leclerc nor Sainz is expected to miss any additional running beyond FP1. Both drivers will return for FP2 later on Friday as preparations continue for qualifying and Sunday's Austrian Grand Prix.
But for the six rookies in the spotlight, FP1 at the Austrian GP is a golden chance to make a splash on one of Formula 1's toughest weekends.