Major shake-up in Abu Dhabi: Nearly half the grid changes

A total of nine drivers have been confirmed to drive in FP1 of the upcoming Grand Prix weekend at the Yas Marina Circuit.

A total of four current Formula 2 drivers will also take part in FP1 on Friday alongside their duties in the feeder series.

For Aston Martin, the duo of Jak Crawford and Cian Shields will replace the team's full-time drivers. The American is currently second in the drivers' standings in the feeder series, while the Scotsman is yet to score a single point.

Arvid Lindblad, who will join Racing Bulls for the 2026 season, will replace Yuki Tsunoda this weekend. Fellow Briton Luke Browning is set to complete his third FP1 outing this year with Williams.

Championship contender Oscar Piastri will not drive in FP1, GPblog could previously reveal in an exclusive article. IndyCar driver Pato O'Ward will be in action alongside Lando Norris on Friday.

Super Formula champion and reserve driver Ayumu Iwasa will replace Liam Lawson, while Paul Aron is set for his fourth FP1 outing this season.

The Leclerc brothers will once again team up in Abu Dhabi, as Arthur Leclerc will take over Lewis Hamilton's car. Ryo Hirakawa will drive in place of Esteban Ocon.

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