Leclerc brothers to make F1 history in Abu Dhabi FP1

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Thanks to Ferrari, Formula 1 is set for a historic first in Abu Dhabi this week, with two brothers – Charles and Arthur Leclerc – sharing the track at the same time in an official session and driving for the same team.

For the Scuderia, this weekend’s season finale at Yas Marina will first and foremost see Carlos Sainz bid farewell to the Italian outfit after a four-year tenure with the House of Maranello marked by four wins, six pole positions and an impressive 24 podium finishes.

The 30-year-old Spaniard is set to embark on a bold new chapter with Williams. But first, Sainz will look to close his Ferrari era with a bang, aiming to leave a lasting legacy in scarlet as he roars through Abu Dhabi one final time.

And if that wasn’t enough, F1 history will be made in the capital of the United Arab Emirates!

Arthur Leclerc, the younger brother of Ferrari star Charles Leclerc, will take center stage, stepping into Sainz’s seat for the first free practice session on Friday.

For the first time in Formula 1’s storied history, two brothers will blaze the track simultaneously, both donning Ferrari colors.

Read also:

Leclerc: Ferrari needs 1-2 in Abu Dhabi to keep title hopes alive

But Arthur’s active association with the Scuderia this week won’t end there. He’ll also jump behind the wheel during the post-season test on Tuesday, sharing one of Ferrari’s SF-24’s with 2024 Le Mans 24 Hours winner Antonio Fuoco.

Meanwhile, Charles will command the second car, ensuring the Leclerc brothers will continue to make waves even after the Grand Prix has concluded.

However, Ferrari’s main focus in Abu Dhabi will be its quest to wrestle F1’s Constructors’ title from the grasp of championship leader McLaren.

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Twenty-one points separate the two teams, and while Scuderia boss Fred Vasseur acknowledges the uphill battle ahead, the Frenchman remains steadfast in the Italian outfit’s commitment to leave nothing on the table.

“For the first time in the hybrid era, we are in the running for the championship title at the final round. That in itself is a great achievement, but this weekend we will be trying to take that important final step,” commented Vasseur ahead of this weekend’s epilogue.

“Let’s be honest, it is a mathematical possibility, but in reality it will be very difficult to achieve, because even if we finish first and second, McLaren with its 21 point lead going into this race can afford to finish third and fourth, or even worse and still have the edge.

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“But Ferrari has always liked a challenge! If we can once again produce a perfect weekend from start to finish, we will at least be in with a chance and be able leave Abu Dhabi saying we gave it our best shot.

“Our preparation for this event has been thorough, we know that qualifying will play a very important role, even if our car tends to perform better in the race.

“Charles, Carlos and the entire team are all set to fight tooth and nail to bring home the title.”

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.