Who Will Race at the 2025 F1 Abu Dhabi Post-Season Test?

Formula 1’s post-season test ran on Tuesday at Yas Marina, with every team fielding modified 2025 mule cars. The focus was gathering data for Pirelli and the 2026 regulations.

The cars were adapted to simulate 2026, when downforce drops and active aerodynamics arrive. Pirelli evaluated smaller, narrower tyres with new constructions to suit the altered load profiles.

Teams supplied predicted downforce figures, but estimates varied widely. Pirelli therefore brought a broad compound range. Straight-line speeds were capped at 290–300 km/h to manage tyre wear.

Participation varied. Several lead drivers, including Max Verstappen and George Russell, skipped the running to free mileage for junior programmes and to conclude extended seasons.

Red Bull handed its mileage to Isack Hadjar and Ayumu Iwasa. Fresh from a Super Formula title, Iwasa sampled the RB21-based mule as the team assessed tyre behaviour.

Mercedes ran Frederik Vesti and Andrea Kimi Antonelli. McLaren combined regulars Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri with Pato O’Ward, the 2025 IndyCar runner-up, for comparative feedback.

The young-driver component limited participants to those with two or fewer grands prix. Ferrari’s Dino Beganovic, Williams’ Luke Browning, and Aston Martin’s Jak Crawford headed that group.

Alpine ran Kush Maini, while Sauber fielded Paul Aron. Racing Bulls gave Arvid Lindblad mileage as he prepares for a 2026 full-time step.

Aston Martin’s approach differed. Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll sat out, with Stoffel Vandoorne completing the programme as the team’s sole mule-car driver.

Haas prioritised development miles for reserve Ryo Hirakawa in the VF-25, reflecting a broader emphasis on evaluating talent alongside tyre data collection.

Although no 2025 tyre changes will result, the dataset refines simulation tools, load models, and operational windows under reduced downforce and active aero configurations.

The blend of race winners, experienced testers, and rising prospects offered robust cross-references for teams and Pirelli, strengthening the evidence base ahead of 2026’s technical reset.

With Yas Marina running complete, teams pivot to off-season projects, translating test findings into car concepts, correlation work, and operational plans for the sport’s next rules era.

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Daniel Miller

Daniel Miller reports on Formula 1 Grand Prix weekends with race-day analysis, team-radio highlights, and point-standings updates. He explains power-unit upgrades, aerodynamic developments, and driver rivalries in straightforward, SEO-friendly language for a global F1 audience.