Mercedes have confirmed that Frederik Vesti will replace Lewis Hamilton in the initial follow for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
The conclusion follows on from a rule introduced final 12 months which dictates that just about every crew must run a rookie in two follow classes throughout the time.
With that in mind, a amount of kids are set to function on the keep track of in Abu Dhabi, offered that it is the period finale.
Vesti, 21, previously participated in FP1 in Mexico final month in position of Hamilton’s Mercedes group-mate, George Russell.
Speaking to the Mercedes website, Vesti explained: ‘Driving in FP1 in Abu Dhabi is an additional stage in my job. Obtaining my first experience of an official session on an F1 weekend in Mexico was a major minute.
Mercedes have verified that Frederik Vesti will replace Lewis Hamilton in the to start with observe for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
Hamilton will sit out the exercise session pursuing a rule introduction that groups have to operate rookies in in two practice periods across the season
‘I learnt so considerably, and it was great staying able to guidance the crew and get the job done with Lewis and George. I am searching ahead to creating on that experience at Yas Marina.
‘It’s a observe I know well and that will no doubt make it easier to get up to speed in the a person hour of apply.
‘I’m very thrilled to get back again powering-the-wheel of the W14 for FP1 and then the write-up-time take a look at. The moment once more, I want to say a large thank you to the group for supplying me this possibility.’
The 21-calendar year-previous has been that includes for Prema Racing this time in Formulation 2 and at present sits second in the standings subsequent a strong year.
The Danish driver has taken 5 victories and 3 other podium finishes so much this period, ahead of the final spherical of 2023.
Heading into the last party of the F1 time, there is nevertheless a ton up for grabs for Mercedes, inspite of the title becoming won by Purple Bull extensive back.
At this time, there are only four points separating Mercedes and Ferrari in the battle for P2 in the constructors’ standings.
Hamilton and Russell presently sit third and eighth respectively in the drivers’ standings.
Vesti participated in initially follow in Mexico final thirty day period in location of Hamilton’s Mercedes staff-mate, George Russell