Despite the fact that the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is still some time away, speculation is rife about who will take Oliver Bearman’s place in the Ferrari SF-24 car for the first free practice session at the Yas Marina circuit. Antonio Fuoco might compete for the spot with Arthur Leclerc, with both options appealing greatly to fans.
On one side is Antonio Fuoco, Le Mans winner and an Italian driver who could drive a Ferrari in an official F1 session after several years. On the other, there’s the younger Leclerc, who, if given the opportunity, would make history by driving alongside his older brother Charles.
Antonio Fuoco or Arthur Leclerc in place of Oliver Bearman?
Recently, Antonio Fuoco’s presence in Abu Dhabi seemed almost certain after his testing with the F1-75 at Fiorano. Many assumed these private circuit tests were to prepare the driver from Cariati to take the track at Yas Marina.
However, new information suggests these tests were solely due to Antonio Fuoco’s role as a Ferrari test driver, and the choice was tied to his duties. Ferrari has yet to make an official decision about who will be selected to take the track alongside driver number 16 in the red car.
In Abu Dhabi, one of the two will replace Carlos Sainz to meet the FIA regulation requiring a rookie driver to participate in the first practice session. Previously, Oliver Bearman was designated for this role, but after racing in the Brazilian Grand Prix at the Interlagos circuit for Haas, the Ferrari Driver Academy member lost his rookie status. Ferrari now faces a tough decision…
Leave a Reply