Several teams to field rookie drivers in Mexico City GP first practice
A number of Formula 1 race drivers will sit out the opening practice session in Mexico City as teams use FP1 to meet rookie-running requirements. Among those confirmed for outings is Racing Bulls junior Nikola Tsolov, who will replace Liam Lawson.
Multiple teams are set to hand first-practice running to less experienced drivers at the Mexico City Grand Prix, with reports saying 10 regular drivers will miss FP1. The session forms part of teams' efforts to complete Formula 1's rookie practice requirement, which mandates opportunities across the season for drivers with two or fewer grand prix starts.
Racing Bulls has confirmed Nikola Tsolov for FP1 in place of Liam Lawson. Tsolov has been described as a contender for a future Racing Bulls seat, with some reports linking the decision to the still-unsettled 2027 driver market.
Elsewhere, reports say Max Verstappen and George Russell will also sit out the first practice session in Mexico City, along with Lando Norris and Franco Colapinto. One report said teams are moving to fulfil these practice quotas earlier than necessary because of uncertainty surrounding the final two rounds of 2026.
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