FIVE ROOKIES TO TAKE PART IN FP1 AT THE HUNGARIAN GRAND PRIX
Five rookies drivers will get the chance to drive Formula 1 machinery during Free Practice 1 at the Hungarian Grand Prix, as Mercedes, McLaren, Alpine, Haas and Cadillac all make changes to their usual line-ups at the Hungaroring.
The FP1 appearances are part of the FIA requirement that every Formula 1 team must give rookie drivers track time during the season. Teams are required to run young drivers in multiple practice sessions to help them gain experience at the highest level of motorsport.
Mercedes will replace championship leader Kimi Antonelli with Frederik Vesti. The Danish driver is Mercedes’ reserve driver for 2026 and has already completed several FP1 sessions for the team. Vesti has also moved into endurance racing, competing in IMSA while continuing his role within the Mercedes Formula 1 programme.
At McLaren, Leonardo Fornaroli will take over Oscar Piastri’s car. The Italian driver already made his Formula 1 practice debut earlier this season in Barcelona and is part of McLaren’s driver development programme after winning the 2025 Formula 2 championship.
Alpine will give Paul Aron another opportunity in Formula 1. The Estonian driver, who is part of Alpine’s junior programme, has already driven in FP1 sessions this season and continues to gain experience while working with the team.
Haas will bring back Ryō Hirakawa for FP1, with the Japanese driver replacing Oliver Bearman. Hirakawa is Haas’ test and reserve driver and also competes in the World Endurance Championship with Toyota. He has already driven the Haas car during practice sessions earlier this season.
Cadillac will give Colton Herta another Formula 1 opportunity, with the American replacing Valtteri Bottas. Herta, known for his IndyCar career, joined Cadillac as a test driver and moved to Formula 2 in 2026 as part of his preparation for a possible future Formula 1 role.
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