These are the rookies in action during FP1 in Abu Dhabi

On Friday in Abu Dhabi, no fewer than six rookies will be in action during the first free practice session. These will include young talent from Red Bull Racing and Ferrari ranks.

No FP1 for Verstappen in Abu Dhabi

Max Verstappen will not be in action during the first free practice session. Isack Hadjar current F2 Drvier's Title contender will take his seat in the Middle Eastern Afternoon. Busy Friday for the Red Bull Junior, who after driving during the Formula 2 free practice in the morning, will later drive the most important qualifying session of the season. Given the fact that he's only 0,5 points away from Gabriel Bortoleto, leader of the F2 standings, he could very well walk away from the feeder series as champion come the chequeared flag on Sunday.

Leclerc brothers drive together for Ferrari

There will also be another historic moment in Formula 1. Arthur Leclerc will replace Carlos Sainz in the Ferrari. This means he will be in action together with his brother, Charles Leclerc, during the first free practice session in Abu Dhabi.

Furthermore, McLaren reserve driver Ryo Hirakawa will replace Oscar Piastri, former Formula 2 champion Felipe Drugovich will step into Lance Stroll 's car and Ayumu Iwasa will replace Yuki Tsunoda. Finally, Luke Browning will replace Alexander Albon in action for Williams during the first free practice session at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi.

This article has been written with the help of Cas van de Kleut