In a notable change in the dynamics of the Mexican Grand Prix, Max Verstappen will not participate in the first practice session, leaving his place to Ayumu Iwasa, a driver for Red Bull Racing.
This decision is part of the team’s strategy, which seeks to comply with FIA requirements to allow rookie drivers, who have competed in two or fewer races, opportunities to drive during practice sessions. Each team is required to provide four opportunities for these drivers during the season.
Ayumu Iwasa, who has already participated in three FP1 sessions this season, is preparing for his eighth experience in these practices, with the aim of gaining more experience at the wheel of the RB22. Iwasa has already driven at circuits like Barcelona and Monza, in addition to making his appearance in Austria.
Despite Verstappen’s absence, who recently achieved victories in Sepang and Singapore and another podium at the last US GP, the team has some concerns, including a poor start and radio communication problems that have affected both the Dutch driver and his teammate, Isack Hadjar.
Iwasa’s presence as a substitute driver is not the only novelty of the Mexican GP. Other teams have also decided to give chances to rookie drivers, such as Fred Vesti replacing George Russell at Mercedes. Additionally, drivers like Gabriele Mini and Freddie Slater will debut with Alpine and Audi respectively, while Ryo Hirakawa will have his opportunity with Haas.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI