Just In: McLaren officially confirm driver SWAP ahead of Abu Dhabi GP after…read more
McLaren officially confirm driver SWAP ahead of Abu Dhabi GP after…read more
McLaren has unveiled intriguing driver news ahead of this weekend’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the grand finale of the 2024 Formula 1 season. The race at Yas Marina Circuit will be pivotal as McLaren enters the weekend leading the constructors’ standings.
The British team is currently 21 points ahead of Ferrari, their closest rival, setting the stage for a nail-biting battle on Sunday. If McLaren can maintain their edge and secure the championship, it will mark their first constructors’ title since the 1998 season—a significant milestone in their storied history.
Ryo Hirakawa to Replace Oscar Piastri in FP1
As part of their preparations for this critical weekend, McLaren announced a temporary driver change for the first practice session (FP1). Ryo Hirakawa, one of the team’s reserve drivers, will step into Oscar Piastri’s seat for the session. This move fulfills Formula 1’s requirement for all teams to field rookie drivers in at least two Free Practice sessions during the season.
Hirakawa’s participation follows McLaren’s earlier rookie outing with IndyCar star Pato O’Ward, who drove in FP1 during his home race in Mexico earlier this year. O’Ward has also been confirmed for the Young Driver Test, scheduled for December 10th.
Hirakawa joined McLaren’s Driver Development program in September 2023 as a reserve driver and has since been instrumental in the team’s simulator work at their Technology Centre. His experience includes private testing sessions in both last year’s MCL35M and this season’s MCL36, giving him valuable familiarity with McLaren’s machinery.
High Stakes for McLaren
The decision to field Hirakawa in such a critical weekend underscores McLaren’s confidence in their young talent while meeting regulatory requirements. The team will hope to capitalize on their points advantage while navigating the pressure of a title-deciding race.
The constructors’ championship battle promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the season. With Ferrari eager to overturn the deficit and McLaren determined to end their 26-year title drought, every decision, including driver choices, carries immense weight.
As fans gear up for what could be a historic weekend, all eyes will be on McLaren to see if their strategic planning, combined with the performance of both their regular drivers and rising stars, can secure the coveted championship crown.
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