Formula 1: Young pilots light up the finale in Abu Dhabi!

Formula 1: Young pilots light up the finale in Abu Dhabi!

Seven regular drivers are missing from the last Formula 1 showdown of 2024 in Abu Dhabi. This decision gives the young talents the opportunity to prove themselves in the first free practice session. World champion Max Verstappen will be replaced by 20-year-old Isack Hadjar, who is also fighting for the Formula 2 title krone.at reported. A lot is at stake: Hadjar not only needs a solid performance to be recommended for a cockpit at Red Bull Racing 2025, but he also has to hold his own against Gabriel Bortoleto.

Verstappen is not the only one sitting out. Alpine's Esteban Ocon will also be replaced by Jack Doohan, who parted ways with Ocon before the Qatar race. Williams leaves Alex Albon out and puts 20-year-old Luke Browning in his car. Aston Martin relies on Jak Crawford (19), who replaces Lance Stroll. Antonio Fuoco is supposed to drive for Charles Leclerc at Ferrari. Other young drivers such as Ayumu Iwasa and Ryo Hirakawa complete the line-up, as stated in another report by speedweek.com explained.

Team World Cup decision in sight

In addition, the decision for the constructors' title is imminent. McLaren has lost its lead in Qatar and the situation is getting worse as Ferrari lurks in second place, just 21 points behind. With 44 points still up for grabs at the finale, McLaren are dreaming of their first team triumph since 1998. It will be a hot battle for the top of the team standings, while Red Bull Racing has no chance of a title.