Formula 2 driver Dino Beganovic becomes the latest rookie confirmed to take part in FP1 during the Formula 1 Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix this weekend.
The DAMS Lucas Oil driver will take over from seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton in the opening hour of practice in Barcelona. Marking the Swede’s third official outing with one of F1’s most iconic teams, Ferrari.
After being a part of the teams simulator programme in 2026, Beganovic emphasised his excitement to drive the SF-26 Ferrari on track.
“My expectations for this weekend and for FP1 are a mix of technical focus and emotion,” Beganovic said.
“It’s always incredibly special to take part in an FP1 session. And more generally, to be back in a Ferrari Formula 1 car.”
Since 2020, Beganovic has been a member of the coveted Ferrari Driver Academy. Yet the thrill of pulling on the iconic race suit will always be surreal for the young driver.
“Putting on the red race suit, getting back behind the wheel, and working closely with the engineers and mechanics is something unique. So I’m really looking forward to Barcelona.
I have great memories from last year’s FP1. And I want to build on that experience and put everything together this time.”
Importantly, Beganovic’s goal is to help the team progress, potentially catching the rapid Mercedes.
“My aim is to do the job the team requires of me.
Provide useful feedback, and adapt to the car as much as possible. If I can do that, it will be a positive session for the whole team and hopefully an enjoyable one for me too.”
Four rounds into 2026, Beganovic sits sixth in the F2 championship. The Ferrari junior has 43 points, two podiums and a pole position so far. However, Beganovic’s season has been hindered by reliability issues in crucial races.
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