F1 rookies handed major experience boost

The FIA has confirmed rookie drivers will receive additional time behind the wheel of F1 machinery next year.

All full-time drivers must now hand over their cars to rookie drivers twice during the season, rather than just once, which has been mandatory since 2022.

The boost means there will be four FP1 outings per team available to rookie drivers.

The drives offer a crucial chance for competitors to gain experience in up-to-date F1 cars following the reduction of testing opportunities outside of race weekends in recent seasons.

Teams usually allocate the sessions to members of their junior academies or their reserve drivers, who are often without F1 race experience under their belts.

Focus on adding extra opportunities for junior F1 drivers has been a key topic in recent months.

A plan to host a sprint race event for 10 rookies was proposed at the post-season test from Abu Dhabi - however the scheme was scrapped for this year.