Thanks to Ferrari, Formula One is set for a historic first in Abu Dhabi this week, with two brothers – Charles and Arthur Leclerc – sharing the track in an official session while driving for the same team.
For the Scuderia, this weekend’s season finale at Yas Marina will represent Carlos Sainz’s final race with the Italian team after four wins, six pole positions, and an amazing 24 podium finishes over four years.
The 30-year-old Spaniard is about to embark on a bold new chapter with Williams. But first, Sainz will attempt to end his Ferrari career on a high note, leaving a lasting legacy in scarlet as he roars through Abu Dhabi for the final time.
And, if that isn’t enough, F1 history will be made in the capital of the UAE!
Arthur Leclerc, the younger brother of Ferrari star Charles Leclerc, will replace Sainz in the first free practice session on Friday.
For the first time in Formula One history, two brothers will race together, both wearing Ferrari colors.
However, Arthur’s active involvement with the Scuderia this week will not end there. He’ll also take the wheel for the post-season test on Tuesday, sharing one of Ferrari’s SF-24s with 2024 Le Mans 24 Hours champion Antonio Fuoco.
Meanwhile, Charles will drive the second vehicle, ensuring that the Leclerc brothers continue to generate headlines long after the Grand Prix is over.
Ferrari’s primary goal in Abu Dhabi will be to take the F1 Constructors’ Championship from championship leader McLaren’s clutches.
The two teams are separated by 21 points, and while Scuderia chief Fred Vasseur knows the hard task ahead, the Frenchman remains resolute in the Italian outfit’s determination to leaving nothing on the table.
“For the first time in the hybrid era, we are in contention for the championship title in the final round.” That is an impressive accomplishment in and of itself, but this weekend we will attempt to take that critical next step,” Vasseur stated ahead of this weekend’s epilogue.
“To be honest, it is a mathematical possibility, but it will be extremely tough to achieve, because even if we finish first and second, McLaren, with a 21-point lead into this race, can finish third and fourth, or even worse, and still have the advantage.
“But Ferrari has always enjoyed a challenge! If we can repeat the flawless weekend from beginning to end, we will at least have a chance and can leave Abu Dhabi knowing we gave it our all.
“Our preparation for this event has been extensive; we know that qualifying will be critical, even if our car often performs better in the race.
“Charles, Carlos and the entire team are all set to fight tooth and nail to bring home the title.”
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