Have you ever glanced at the Formula 1 practice times and done a double take because the names just didn’t look right? That is exactly what will happen this weekend at the Hungarian Grand Prix, as four full-time drivers step aside so up-and-coming rookies can get their shot behind the wheel.
Here is the full rundown of who is swapping out for Friday’s FP1 session at the Hungaroring.
McLaren star Oscar Piastri will be watching from the sidelines, trading his steering wheel for a garage view. Taking his place is Leonardo Fornaroli, the back-to-back F3 and F2 champion, who already got a taste of the reigning champion’s car back in Barcelona last month.
Over at Alpine, Franco Colapinto is giving up his seat for Paul Aron. This is not Aron’s first rodeo — he has been a reserve driver for the Enstone squad before and even filled in for both Audi F1 drivers earlier this season after being loaned out.
Ryo Hirakawa is getting another chance behind the wheel after subbing for Esteban Ocon at the Red Bull Ring. This time he will take over Ollie Bearman’s ride for FP1 in Hungary.
The fourth swap involves Cadillac-contracted F2 driver Colton Herta, who will replace Valtteri Bottas. Herta shared his excitement ahead of the session, saying it is a fantastic opportunity to gain experience and help the team’s development. He added that his goal is not only to support the race drivers but also to provide feedback that will aid long-term progress.
If you are wondering why these changes happen, it is actually part of the rules. Every full-time driver must sit out two FP1 sessions per season, giving rookies — defined as drivers with no more than two Grands Prix under their belt — a chance to get track time. That means each of the 11 teams has to run a young driver in four sessions across the campaign.
So, which of these fresh faces do you think will make the biggest impression when they hit the track?
