Abu Dhabi 2025 Post-Season Test – Previewing 2026
After the final race of the 2025 season, all ten Formula 1 teams returned to Yas Marina Circuit for the post-season test. The focus was on testing “mule cars,” modified 2025 chassis simulating the 2026 regulations, including new aerodynamics and tyre setups. Teams also gave track time to rookie drivers to gain experience.
Participants
Both regular drivers and rookies took part. Notable mule-car drivers included Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri (McLaren), Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes), and Charles Leclerc (Ferrari). Rookies included Jak Crawford (Aston Martin), Paul Aron (Sauber), Luke Browning (Williams), Frederik Vesti (Mercedes), and Ayumu Iwasa (Red Bull).
Top Times
| Position | Driver | Team | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jak Crawford | Aston Martin | 1:23.766 |
| 2 | Paul Aron | Sauber | 1:23.847 |
| 3 | Luke Browning | Williams | 1:23.920 |
| 4 | Frederik Vesti | Mercedes | 1:24.568 |
| 5 | Ayumu Iwasa | Red Bull | 1:24.925 |
| 6 | Kimi Antonelli | Mercedes | 1:25.170 |
| 7 | Oscar Piastri | McLaren | 1:26.099 |
| 8 | Charles Leclerc | Ferrari | 1:26.417 |
| 9 | Lando Norris | McLaren | 1:26.142 |
Rookies topped the overall times, while full-season drivers on mule cars posted slower laps.
Insights for 2026
Lap times are not indicative of next season’s performance due to differing setups and tyre use. The main purpose was data collection: testing 2026 tyre compounds, aerodynamics, and car behavior under new regulations. The session also allowed teams to evaluate rookies and reserve drivers for potential 2026 seats.
