P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Half of the current F1 teams will field rookie drivers during FP1 at the Mexican Grand Prix – but who are the drivers getting the chance, and who is stepping aside?
Round 20 of the current F1 season takes place at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriquez for the Mexico City Grand Prix. This is one of the final three rounds without the sprint format, allowing teams to field rookie drivers. Teams are required to give their rookies F1 experience during two FP1 sessions per year, increasing to four in 2025. Half of the grid will feature rookie drivers in the opening practice segment. IndyCar star Pato O’Ward will drive for Championship-leading McLaren, while Oliver Bearman, Kimi Antonelli, Felipe Drugovich, and Robert Shwartzman will also have their chance to shine during FP1. The rookie drivers will have 60 minutes to familiarize themselves with F1 machinery during the session starting at 12:30 PM local time on Friday, October 25.
