F1 LIVE: Abu Dhabi Grand Prix FP1 Action Begins

The final weekend of the 2025 F1 season kicks off with FP1 at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Teams are utilizing the session to give rookie drivers track time, setting the stage for an intriguing start at Yas Marina.

Why it matters:

This initial practice session is crucial for both established drivers and rookies. While veterans begin fine-tuning their setups for qualifying and the race, a significant number of teams are running young drivers, fulfilling mandatory rookie test requirements. This provides a rare glimpse into future talent and how they adapt to F1 machinery under pressure, potentially influencing their careers and future team lineups.

The details:

• Rookie Showcase: A majority of teams have opted to field Formula 1 rookies for FP1, providing them with valuable experience on a Grand Prix weekend. This also allows teams to assess their performance against seasoned drivers.
• Yas Marina Challenge: Drivers will navigate the Yas Marina circuit, a track known for its unique layout and demanding conditions, as they work on car balance and tire management.
• Car Setup Focus: For the full-time drivers participating, the session is a critical opportunity to gather initial data and make fundamental setup changes to optimize their cars for the rest of the weekend's competitive sessions.
• Performance Benchmarking: The session will reveal which teams and drivers have immediately found pace, offering early indicators of who might be strong contenders in the season finale.

What's next:

Following FP1, teams will analyze the data collected from both experienced and rookie drivers. This will inform their strategies for FP2 and FP3, where the focus will shift more intensely towards qualifying simulations and long-run pace in preparation for Sunday's final race of the season. The rookie performances will also be scrutinized, potentially opening doors for future F1 opportunities.