A Quarter of the F1 Grid Set to Sit Out Mexico Practice
Under the current regulations, each full-time driver is required to give up their car for at least two FP1 sessions during the season to allow rookies, defined as those who have started no more than two Grand Prix, to gain experience. With the season nearing its end and limited opportunities remaining, several teams have chosen to complete their requirements this weekend at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez.
The following teams will make changes for FP1, bringing a mix of Formula 2 racers, test drivers, and endurance stars into the spotlight:
- McLaren: Pato O'Ward, reserve driver and IndyCar star, will replace Lando Norris.
- Mercedes: Frederik Vesti will take George Russell's car for his fourth practice outing.
- Ferrari: Antonio Fuoco, a long-time member of the Scuderia's simulator and development programme, will drive the SF-25.
- Red Bull: Arvid Lindblad, an F2 racer, will make his second FP1 appearance after debuting at Silverstone.
- Williams: Luke Browning, a junior driver, will step into Carlos Sainz's FW47.
- Haas: Ryo Hirakawa will continue his outings, taking Ollie Bearman's seat.
- Alpine: Paul Aron will stand in for Pierre Gasly.
- Aston Martin: Jak Crawford, after a strong F2 season with four wins, will make his F1 debut.
These changes mark one of the largest single-session shakeups in recent seasons, highlighting how teams are rushing to fulfill their rookie running obligations before the season's final rounds. With Sprint formats limiting FP1 time in Qatar and Brazil, and Las Vegas offering little margin for error on its new street circuit, Mexico and Abu Dhabi represent the last realistic chances for teams to meet their 2025 rookie requirements.
