Leclerc comes out on top in Formula 1 season ending test in Abu Dhabi
Ferrari's Charles Leclerc (27) topped the timesheets as Formula 1 concluded the season with a final test session in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday.
His former teammate Carlos Sainz experienced his first full day with new team Williams, securing the second-fastest time, while a group of young talents took the place of regular drivers to gain essential experience in the latest vehicles.
Sainz completed the second-highest number of laps, totaling 146, which is more than two and a half races at the Yas Marina circuit, following RB's Liam Lawson, who recorded 159 laps.
Leclerc focused on testing Pirelli's 2025 tyre compounds, completing 134 laps and achieving a best time of one minute 23.510 seconds, while his younger brother Arthur and Italian Antonio Fuoco alternated in driving the Ferrari previously occupied by Sainz.
RB driver Yuki Tsunoda participated in his first test with the senior Red Bull team, alongside France's Isack Hadjar in the other car, at the venue that hosted the season's final race on Sunday.
"This is the first time in four years that I have driven a different car. You can truly feel why the RB20 has been competing for a championship this year; it offers a distinctly different driving experience," remarked the Japanese driver.
"The atmosphere in the garage has been incredibly enjoyable. I believe the car aligns well with my driving style, and I have adapted with relative ease."
McLaren's race winner Lando Norris also returned to the track alongside Oscar Piastri and Mexican IndyCar driver Pato O'Ward, following their celebration of the team's first constructors' championship since 1998.
"I relished the opportunity to be back on track this morning, assisting Pirelli with the development of next year's tyres," stated Norris.
"It is now time to unwind after such a remarkable conclusion to the season; the team deserves a well-earned break before we prepare for next year."
Mercedes had George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, the 18-year-old Italian who will replace seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton next season, on the circuit.
Hamilton, who is set to join Ferrari, was in Malaysia attending an event with team sponsor Petronas.
Aston Martin engaged Brazilian reserve Felipe Drugovich and American F2 driver Jak Crawford in their testing activities, while Renault-owned Alpine evaluated Estonian reserve Paul Aron and Australian Jack Doohan.
Esteban Ocon experienced his initial run in the Haas car following his departure from Alpine prior to Sunday’s race, and Sauber conducted tests with their 2025 lineup, featuring Nico Hulkenberg and Brazilian F2 champion Gabriel Bortoleto.
"Today was my inaugural day as a Formula One driver. It is an incredible sensation," remarked Bortoleto.
The 2025 season is set to commence in Melbourne on March 16th.
SportsLigue