Lewis Hamilton replaced by Mercedes for FP1 ahead of season-ending Abu Dhabi GP

Lewis Hamilton replaced by Mercedes for FP1 ahead of season-ending Abu Dhabi GP

The seven-time world champion could do his opening practice ahead of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix this weekend.

Lewis Hamilton took a break ahead of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Mercedes has confirmed that junior driver Frédéric Westi will take part in the first free practice session (FP1) ahead of this weekend’s season finale.

At last month’s Mexican GP, he will replace George Russell in FP1, the second of two mandatory sessions where teams will have to field a rookie behind Hamilton’s car.

The 21-year-old Dane will also be able to drive the W14 for a day during end-of-season testing.

Vesti is currently second in the 2023 F2 championship, having taken four wins and three more podiums so far this season. He has one more round to challenge for the title.

Going to FP1 in Abu Dhabi is a new step in my career,” said Westy. “My first experience at an official F1 weekend session in Mexico was a huge moment.

“I learned a lot and it was great to support the team and work with Lewis and George.

We look forward to continuing this experience at Yas Marina. It’s a familiar circuit to me and definitely makes it easier to get up to speed during practice sessions.

“I’m really excited to be back driving the W14 for 1FP and taking part in post-season testing. “I would like to thank the club once again for giving me this opportunity,” he said.

Andrew Shovlin, Director of Trackside Engineering, said: “Fred performed well in the first FP1 session in Mexico City, helping to keep the schedule smooth and start the weekend on a positive note. car in Abu Dhabi. It will be a busy weekend for Fred due to his F2 commitments.

“But he’s shown the maturity and confidence to deal with it and I’m confident he’ll make the most of this weekend.”