Charles Leclerc dominates as F1 concludes with season-ending test in Abu Dhabi
Ferrari's Charles Leclerc emerged as the fastest driver on the timesheets as Formula 1 brought the 2024 season to a close with a final test session in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday.
Leclerc's former teammate, Carlos Sainz, who recently transitioned to Williams, posted the second-fastest time. Sainz also recorded the second-highest number of laps with a total of 146, equivalent to more than two and a half races at the Yas Marina Circuit. Red Bull's Liam Lawson led with 159 laps.
During the test, Leclerc focused on Pirelli's 2025 tyre compounds, completing 134 laps and setting a best time of one minute 23.510 seconds. Meanwhile, his younger brother Arthur Leclerc and Italian Antonio Fuoco shared driving duties in the Ferrari previously occupied by Sainz.
In an exciting career milestone, RB driver Yuki Tsunoda had his first test with the senior Red Bull team, partnering with France's Isack Hadjar. Tsunoda expressed his enthusiasm, saying, "It's the first time in the past four years that I have driven a different car. You can physically feel why the RB20 has been fighting for a championship this year, it feels like a very different car to drive. It's been such an enjoyable atmosphere in the garage. I feel like the car suits my driving style and I haven't struggled much at all to adapt."
McLaren’s lineup saw race winner Lando Norris back on the track alongside Oscar Piastri and Mexican IndyCar driver Pato O'Ward, following their first constructors' championship victory since 1998. Norris remarked, "I enjoyed being back on track for the morning supporting Pirelli with the development of next year's tyres. It's now time to relax after such an incredible end to the season, the team deserve some well-earned time off before we go again next year."
Mercedes featured George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, the 18-year-old Italian set to replace seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton next season. Hamilton, who is moving to Ferrari, attended an event in Malaysia with team sponsor Petronas.
Aston Martin put Brazilian reserve Felipe Drugovich and American F2 driver Jak Crawford on track, while Renault-owned Alpine tested Estonian reserve Paul Aron and Australian Jack Doohan. Esteban Ocon experienced his first test in a Haas car after leaving Alpine, and Sauber showcased their 2025 lineup with Nico Hülkenberg and Brazilian F2 champion Gabriel Bortoleto. "Today marked my first day as a Formula One driver. It's an amazing feeling," Bortoleto shared.
With the 2024 season wrapped up, all eyes turn to the 2025 season, which is set to kick off in Melbourne on March 16.
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