For the free practice sessions of the Japanese GP, Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and Jack Doohan from Alpine will step aside in FP1 to make way for two rookie drivers.
Everything is set for the Japanese Grand Prix, where teams and drivers are ready for Round 3 of the Formula 1 season. The action will begin on Thursday, April 3, at 8:30 PM (CDMX time) with the first free practice session, but Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc will not be on track for the opening session.
Leclerc steps aside for a rookie
This is due to an FIA regulation requiring teams to field rookie drivers in at least four free practice sessions throughout the season. The rule aims to help young drivers gain experience and exposure in the premier category of motorsport.
For this reason, Ferrari has decided to begin fulfilling this requirement in Suzuka, with Dino Beganovic taking over Leclerc’s seat for FP1 this weekend.
Beganovic, a 21-year-old Swedish driver, was the 2022 Formula Regional European Championship winner and debuted in Formula 2 in 2025.
Jack Doohan will also miss FP1
Another driver who will miss the first practice session will be Jack Doohan. Alpine has also chosen to comply with the rookie mandate, even if it means sidelining one of their regular drivers.
Taking Ocon’s place in Suzuka will be local driver Ryo Hirakawa, who joined Alpine as a reserve driver. Hirakawa already has FP1 experience, as he drove for McLaren in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix practice session in 2024.
Cover photo: X (@ScuderiaFerrari)
