F1 postpones Abu Dhabi rookie sprint race to 2025

Formula 1 has decided to delay the proposal to carry out a rookie sprint race in Abu Dhabi for the 2025 postseason. The event had been planned for December 2024, coinciding with the Pirelli tests after the end of the season. However, due to logistical difficulties, the project will not take place this year.

During the F1 Commission meeting, the organizers discussed the feasibility of holding the event, which aimed to provide more experience to rookie drivers. Despite receiving general support, the lack of time to organize it properly has forced its postponement. The organizers indicated that the race could be held next year, with more time to prepare the details.

Future plans for rookies in F1

The proposal included a short qualifying session, followed by a sprint race in which ten rookie drivers would compete. The initial idea was to hold this on the Tuesday following the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Although the initiative is on hold, discussions are expected to continue to integrate it into the 2025 calendar.

Updates to the 2026 technical regulations

In the same meeting, changes to the 2026 technical regulations were also discussed, following concerns expressed by several teams. The agreed adjustments include an increase in the aerodynamic performance of the cars compared to the original proposals. This came after several meetings with the FIA’s Technical Advisory Committee.

The teams, together with the FIA, have been working for months to fine-tune the details of the new cars. Additionally, three three-day tests were confirmed before the start of the 2026 season, allowing teams to adapt to the new power units, particularly relevant for manufacturers like Audi and Red Bull-Ford.