Two drivers will get their 2019 campaigns off to a flying start after the Abu Dhabi finale, which will take place on November 25 at the Yas Marina Circuit. Although for the moment the information has not been officially confirmed, it is believed that Scuderia Ferrari Finnish driver Kimi Raikkonen has received permission from the Maranello team to test for Sauber in the post-race test after the final race of the season late this month, while 21-year-old Monégasque racing driver Charles Leclerc is set to get his hands on Ferrari’s 2018 car.
At the same time, Scuderia Ferrari has also released test driver Daniil Kvyat to get his Toro Rosso career started early, according to Speed Week: “Given the limited testing options, every kilometre counts so it makes perfect sense to have him in the car.” Toro Rosso boss Franz Tost confirmed.
Kimi Raikkonen will join Sauber for 2019 on a two-year deal, partnering Antonio Giovinazzi next season, while Charles Leclerc will replace the Finnish driver at Scuderia Ferrari in 2019 as Sebastian Vettel‘s new team-mate.
Regarding the post-season Abu Dhabi test, Formula 1 teams have been told that they will not be given special dispensation to run 2019’s new front wings. F1’s aero regulations are changing next year, with simplified front wings and further bodywork restrictions being introduced with an aim of trying to help overtaking. The wider front wings are designed to try to minimise ‘outwash’ – and teams are eager to understand what impact they will have on the rest of the car as they continue their 2019 developments.
Some outfits trialled initial 2019 concepts during the mid-season test at the Hungaroring, and several teams had hoped to give their latest concepts a run at the Abu Dhabi test that takes place the week after the season finale. But following discussions with the FIA about the matter, teams have been told that they will not be allowed to run 2019 development parts because the Yas Marina run is a bespoke tyre test.
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