A final decision has not yet been made, but it seems likely that the 2024 F1 season will not end on December 8 with the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. There will probably be another race a few days later, giving the ten F1 teams and the rookies the opportunity to drive a Formula 1 car.
The Formula 1 Sports Advisory Committee will vote on the idea on October 2, but reportedly, there are no obstacles to a positive outcome. In principle, the idea is that on the Tuesday following the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, 10 rookies will participate in a qualifying session before competing in a sprint race later in the day. Each F1 team will field a rookie driver.
Bruno Michel, the general manager of Formula 2 and Formula 3, is already enthusiastic about the idea. “I think it’s fantastic,” the Frenchman said during an exclusive interview with GPblog. “I believe it still needs to pass through the F1 commission. So, it’s not 100% decided yet. But of course, I’m very much in favor.”
“I think it’s a fantastic opportunity for our drivers. It’s a great, great idea. I’m very happy it’s happening. It’s much better than rookie tests. I think it’s more comprehensive. It’s a more complete day. The tests will be held in the morning. And the races in the afternoon. If it’s voted for. And to me, it’s a fantastic opportunity.”
The most obvious choice in this case would be for Mercedes to let Andrea Kimi Antonelli race, while Oliver Bearman could join Haas. Alpine might opt for Jack Doohan, for example. All these drivers are set to become regular F1 drivers in 2025, so it’s likely they will gain valuable experience in Abu Dhabi.
It will be a great opportunity for the rookies making their F1 debut, giving them the chance to cover miles and get familiar with a car different from those in Formula 2 and Formula 3. Will this be the true test for Kimi Antonelli behind the wheel of a Mercedes?
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