The 2024 Formula 1 season officially came to a close on Tuesday, as the end-of-season Abu Dhabi test wrapped up this year’s track action. The test provided a valuable opportunity for teams to assess their 2025 machinery, with four drivers making their testing debuts for their new teams.
_Carlos Sainz Makes Ferrari Departure Official_
Carlos Sainz was among the four drivers making their testing debuts for new teams. The Spanish driver, who has been with Ferrari since 2021, officially concluded his tenure with the Italian team and began his new chapter with Aston Martin:
– _Aston Martin’s Exciting New Chapter_: Sainz joins Aston Martin on a multi-year deal, partnering with two-time World Champion Fernando Alonso. The team is eager to make a strong impression in 2025, and Sainz’s addition is expected to play a crucial role in their success.
– _Sainz’s Ferrari Legacy_: During his time with Ferrari, Sainz established himself as a consistent points-scorer and a valuable teammate to Charles Leclerc. His departure marks the end of an era, but also presents an exciting new opportunity for the Spanish driver.
_Other Drivers Making Testing Debuts for New Teams_
In addition to Sainz, three other drivers made their testing debuts for new teams:
– _Oscar Piastri (McLaren)_: Piastri, the 2022 Formula 2 Champion, joins McLaren on a multi-year deal. The Australian driver is expected to play a key role in the team’s resurgence.
– _Nyck de Vries (Red Bull Racing)_: De Vries, the 2020-21 Formula E Champion, joins Red Bull Racing as a reserve driver. The Dutch driver will provide valuable support to Max Verstappen and Sergio Pérez.
– _Logan Sargeant (Williams)_: Sargeant, the 2022 Formula 2 runner-up, joins Williams on a multi-year deal. The American driver is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the team.
_Abu Dhabi Test Recap_
The Abu Dhabi test provided a valuable opportunity for teams to assess their 2025 machinery and make final preparations for the upcoming season. Here are some key takeaways from the test:
– _Mercedes’ Promising Start_: Mercedes showed promising signs during the test, with Lewis Hamilton and George Russell both setting competitive lap times.
– _Red Bull Racing’s Continued Dominance_: Red Bull Racing continued to demonstrate their dominance, with Max Verstappen and Sergio Pérez both looking strong during the test.
– _Ferrari’s New Era_: Ferrari began their new era without Carlos Sainz, with Charles Leclerc and new teammate Carlos Alcaraz both showing promising signs during the test.
_What’s Next for Formula 1?_
As the 2024 Formula 1 season comes to a close, the focus shifts to the upcoming 2025 season. Teams will now head into the off-season, where they’ll work tirelessly to develop and improve their cars.
The 2025 Formula 1 season promises to be an exciting one, with new driver lineups, updated regulations, and a renewed sense of competition among the teams. Fans can expect more thrilling races, more dramatic moments, and more unforgettable performances from the world’s best drivers.
