Lando Norris recorded the fastest time in the opening practice session for the title deciding Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, finishing just 0.008 seconds ahead of Max Verstappen. The McLaren driver completed a best lap of one minute 24.485 seconds at the Yas Marina Circuit.
The session featured only 11 regular Formula One drivers, as teams allocated their mandatory practice opportunities to young prospects and development drivers. Formula One regulations require each full time driver to step aside for two first practice sessions during the season to allow rookies or drivers with no more than two grand prix starts to gain experience.
Verstappen reported difficulties with car handling during the session. The track surface offered low grip in the afternoon heat, which does not reflect the cooler night time conditions under which the race will take place. Verstappen told his team that there might be a possible issue with the car.
Oscar Piastri, who remains in mathematical contention for the drivers title at 16 points behind Norris, did not take part in the session. His car was driven by McLaren reserve and IndyCar racer Pato O Ward. McLaren chief executive Zak Brown joked that there was “some guy” taking Piastri’s seat as the team fulfilled its rookie practice requirement.
Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc set the third fastest time, while his younger brother Arthur Leclerc finished sixteenth as he took part in the session in Lewis Hamilton’s car. The brothers previously made history at the circuit in 2023 when they became the first siblings to drive in the same Formula One practice session for the same team. Charles Leclerc reported that his car lacked grip throughout the session.
Mercedes fielded their regular drivers, with Kimi Antonelli finishing fourth and George Russell sixth. Sauber’s Nico Hulkenberg, who is preparing for his 250th grand prix start, ended the session in fifth place.
Ryo Hirakawa, supported by Toyota, was the fastest of the non race drivers. The thirty one year old Japanese driver finished in eleventh place for Haas. He was followed closely by Racing Bulls driver Isack Hadjar in twelfth.
Arvid Lindblad, who will replace Hadjar at Racing Bulls next season as Hadjar moves to Red Bull to partner Verstappen, finished fifteenth while running in Yuki Tsunoda’s car. This session marked Lindblad’s third Formula One practice outing of the year.
