Mercedes had to sit George Russell out of Mexican GP FP1 because of F1 rules.
George Russell won’t be taking part in Free Practice One (FP1) at the Mexican Grand Prix this weekend. Instead, Mercedes reserve driver Frederik Vesti will step in for him.
According to current Formula 1 rules, each team has to let a rookie driver take part in at least four FP1 sessions during the season to help develop young talent.
Vesti has already filled in for Kimi Antonelli twice this year. The Mexican Grand Prix will be the first time he replaces Russell in 2026. To meet the rookie-driver rules, Vesti will need to fill in for Russell at two more races later this season.
Mercedes must give Vesti at least two more FP1 outings to reach the required four sessions. This means that since Vesti has driven for Antonelli twice, he now needs to sit in for Russell twice to meet the rule.
Mercedes’ deputy technical director, Simone Resta, said, “This weekend, Fred will be helping with our development by driving George’s car in FP1. This is really important for us because it connects what we do on track with our virtual work. We really value Fred’s contributions to the team.”
Vesti has been Mercedes’ reserve driver since 2024 and joined their junior program back in 2021. He first drove in an FP1 session at the 2023 Mexican Grand Prix, so this weekend feels like coming full circle for him.
With the start of the 2026 season, Vesti’s role grew after former teammate Valtteri Bottas joined Cadillac full-time.
Vesti shared, “I have some good news! On Friday in Mexico City, I’ll be driving George’s W17 car in FP1. Huge thanks to George for letting me use his car. The last time I drove was in Budapest, so I’m excited to get back in the W17 and see how it feels now. Thanks to the team for the opportunity—it means a lot. Let’s do this. See you in Mexico!”
With five race weekends left this season, Vesti might also appear in FP1 at São Paulo, Las Vegas, Qatar, or Abu Dhabi.
If you want to know more, check out the story on the youngest F1 world champions and how Kimi Antonelli is closing in on a record!