Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton will sit out the opening practice session of the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix this weekend, with Ferrari confirming a temporary replacement for his SF-25 car.
Mandatory Rookie Rule Enforces Driver Change
The switch is not due to injury or performance, but is a direct result of a strict Formula 1 regulation. All teams must field a rookie driver in two FP1 sessions throughout the season. Ferrari is using this final race weekend to fulfil this obligation, giving a younger driver vital track time in current machinery.
Stepping into Hamilton's seat for the initial 90-minute session at the Yas Marina Circuit will be Arthur Leclerc, the younger brother of Ferrari star Charles Leclerc. This marks Arthur's second FP1 outing for the Scuderia in his role as a development driver, a position he balances with racing in the GT World Challenge Europe Sprint Cup.
Hamilton's Return and a Frustrating Season
Hamilton's absence will be brief. The British driver is scheduled to return to his car for the second practice session (FP2), which is typically the more representative running for race conditions under the Abu Dhabi lights. His temporary replacement comes at the climax of what has been a trying 2025 campaign for the veteran.
Despite 18 top-10 finishes, Hamilton has notably failed to secure a single podium position this season. This lack of silverware has sparked debate about his future. Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher recently suggested that Hamilton's evident frustration might mean he is no longer performing at his peak and should contemplate retirement.
Hamilton, however, has firmly dismissed such speculation. He has confirmed his ongoing commitment to the sport and expressed enthusiasm for the next generation of F1 cars, which he believes will improve racing.
A Championship Decider Under the Lights
The driver change adds an intriguing subplot to what is already a high-stakes weekend. The 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is the decisive final round for both the World Drivers' and Constructors' championships. The Yas Marina Circuit will once again provide the dramatic backdrop where the season's titles are settled.
Ferrari is not alone in making a change for FP1. Nine drivers in total are being replaced across the grid for the first practice session, including at least one title contender, as teams comply with the same mandatory rookie rule.
