São Paulo GP 2026: The Seven Rookies Driving in FP1

Seven rookie drivers will take part in opening practice for the 2026 São Paulo Grand Prix, with Rafael Câmara beginning his Formula 1 race debut while six others take over cars for FP1.

The distinction matters at Haas. Câmara will race alongside Oliver Bearman throughout the Interlagos weekend, following the team’s confirmation that Esteban Ocon will not return to its line-up this season.

For the remaining six drivers, Friday’s opening hour provides another opportunity to gain experience and contribute to their teams’ preparation.

Who is driving in São Paulo GP FP1?

The rookie line-up is:

• Dino Beganovic, Ferrari: taking Charles Leclerc’s car.
• Leonardo Fornaroli, McLaren: replacing Oscar Piastri.
• Luke Browning, Williams: taking over from Carlos Sainz.
• Gabriele Minì, Alpine: replacing Pierre Gasly.
• Freddie Slater, Audi: driving Nico Hülkenberg’s car.
• Colton Herta, Cadillac: taking Sergio Pérez’s seat.
• Rafael Câmara, Haas: replacing Esteban Ocon for the entire race weekend.

Câmara begins his home F1 debut

Câmara’s appearance brings forward his graduation to Formula 1, having already secured a Haas race seat for 2027.

The Brazilian arrives as the Formula 2 championship leader and has previous experience with Haas machinery through a Testing of Previous Cars outing at Portimão in August.

His immediate task is broader than completing a practice programme: FP1 begins his preparation for qualifying and his first Grand Prix.

Consecutive outings help the reserves build experience

Fornaroli returns after driving Lando Norris’s McLaren in Mexico City, switching to Piastri’s side of the garage in Brazil. His appearance completes McLaren’s final mandatory rookie session of 2026.

Browning similarly moves from Alex Albon’s Williams to Sainz’s car. Williams says the running will help him understand its latest package and improve the connection between track feedback and simulator work.

Alpine has confirmed that Minì will replace Gasly at Interlagos, following his first official F1 practice appearance in Colapinto’s car in Mexico. Slater also continues a two-event programme with Audi.

Herta’s Cadillac outing carries an additional objective, as he is seeking the final point required towards his superlicence eligibility.

When does São Paulo FP1 start?

Opening practice begins on Friday 6 November at 12:30 local time, equivalent to 15:30 GMT and 16:30 CET.

Interlagos returns to a conventional weekend format, with three practice sessions before qualifying. Our São Paulo Grand Prix timetable provides the complete schedule.