Frederik Vesti and Felipe Drugovich will contest FP1 at the Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix for Mercedes and Aston Martin, respectively.
Vesti, 23, was runner-up in the 2023 FIA Formula 2 Drivers’ Championship, the same year he contested FP1 in Mexico and Abu Dhabi for Mercedes.
He also took part in the post-season Abu Dhabi test with Mercedes last year.
In 2025, he combines his reserve and simulator driver duties for Mercedes with an IMSA Endurance campaign for the Action Express Cadillac squad.
The Dane will take George Russell’s seat on Friday.
“I am really looking forward to getting my first taste of the W16 in FP1 in Bahrain,” said Vesti.
“Being able to put all of my simulator work into practice on the track is a really exciting prospect for me.
“At the start of the year, I set myself the goal of maximising every chance I get behind the wheel of an F1 car in 2025, and that is what I hope to achieve in Bahrain.
“I will be doing everything I can to help the team, George, and [Andrea] Kimi [Antonelli] get set for the rest of the weekend.
“I am grateful to Mercedes for once again giving me this opportunity.”
Seasoned Aston Martin reserve Drugovich handed FP1 opportunity
Drugovich, 24, joined the Aston Martin reserve driver lineup following his 2022 F2 title success.
He has since balanced his duties with a variety of endurance series appearances, and Bahrain will be the latest in several FP1 appearances with Aston Martin.
It’s a circuit the Brazilian knows well, having stood in for the injured Lance Stroll during the 2023 pre-season test.
Drugovich will replace Fernando Alonso during opening practice in Bahrain.
“I’m very happy to be getting out in the F1 car again, especially so early in the season,” he said.
“I’ve been preparing on the simulator to get a feel for the car, and Bahrain is a track I know well and really enjoy driving.
“I’m excited to contribute and give the team the data they need to perform at their best this weekend. Thanks to the whole team for their continued support.”
CEO & Team Principal Andy Cowell added, “We’re pleased to offer Felipe this opportunity to drive the AMR25 in Bahrain.
“He has been an integral part of our team’s simulator programme at the AMR Technology Campus and consistently provides valuable and insightful feedback that helps drive the development of the car.
“Felipe is a trusted pair of hands, and we’re confident he’ll do a great job in FP1 and contribute to our preparations for the race weekend.”
READ MORE – Motorsport Week’s F1 2025 Japanese GP Driver Ratings
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