Hamilton Hands Over the Reins: Leclerc’s Brother Steers Ferrari in Shocking FP1 Swap at Abu Dhabi GP
In an interesting turn of events ahead of the 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton will sit out the first free practice session (FP1) as part of a mandatory rule that requires full-time drivers to hand over their cars for two FP1 sessions each season. This time, Hamilton’s seat in the SF-25 will be taken over by none other than Arthur Leclerc, the younger brother of Ferrari’s star driver Charles Leclerc. This marks the second time in 2025 that the seven-time world champion has given up his driving duties in FP1, following his previous absence at the Mexico City Grand Prix.
The rule, which was put in place to give less-experienced drivers an opportunity to participate in race weekend activities, also means that Hamilton will not be alone in missing the session. Oscar Piastri of McLaren will be replaced by rising star Pato O’Ward, while Fernando Alonso will hand over his Aston Martin AMR25 to Cian Shields, a British driver making his F1 debut. These rotations are not just about giving rookies valuable track time but also about maintaining the competitive balance of the sport and giving promising young drivers a chance to impress.
Hamilton’s decision to step aside for Leclerc’s brother comes with mixed reactions from fans. Some are supportive, seeing it as a necessary part of the sport’s evolution, while others have voiced disappointment, particularly after his somewhat underwhelming season. Criticism of Hamilton has intensified in recent years, with many arguing that his performances haven’t matched the legacy he’s built over the past decade. While the British driver’s absence from FP1 may seem trivial in the grand scheme, it has ignited discussions about his future in the sport, especially as younger talents continue to rise through the ranks.
For Hamilton, this gesture is likely a reminder that Formula 1’s landscape is rapidly changing, and even icons like him must make way for the next generation. As the sport looks toward the future, it’s clear that the old guard will have to continue sharing the limelight with the emerging stars of tomorrow.
