Leclerc Leads Abu Dhabi F1 Test as Sainz Impresses in First Williams Run
Charles Leclerc claimed the top spot in Abu Dhabi's F1 test, with Carlos Sainz impressing in his Williams debut by securing the second-fastest time.
Red and black IndyCar racing vehicle
Leclerc set the pace with a time of 1m23.510, outpacing Sainz by 0.125s. The test allowed teams to run two cars: one for a rookie driver with less than two grand prix starts, and another for Pirelli tire testing.
Sainz, who had previously completed a filming day with Williams on Monday, made the most of his first proper run in the FW46, completing 146 laps and maintaining top positions throughout the day. The session provided valuable feedback for winter developments.
Notable performances included:
- Nico Hulkenberg: Fourth fastest in his Sauber debut (1m23.789)
- Mercedes duo George Russell and Kimi Antonelli: Third and fifth respectively
- Pato O'Ward: Seventh fastest for McLaren with 116 laps
- Alpine newcomer Paul Aron: Impressive debut matching teammate Jack Doohan's pace
- Esteban Ocon: Top ten finish in his Haas debut
Liam Lawson completed the highest lap count with 159, amid speculation about replacing Sergio Perez at Red Bull. Yuki Tsunoda had his first Red Bull machinery experience, completing 127 laps during tire testing.
American driver Jak Crawford made his debut in the 2024 Aston Martin, setting a 1m24.997, slightly faster than Felipe Drugovich in the sister car.
The test day saw minimal interruptions, with only a brief Virtual Safety Car deployment for debris clearance and a late red flag for barrier inspection in the final sector.
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