For one of its two compulsory rookie runs in the inaugural Friday practice sessions, Mercedes has given the 21-year-old Danish driver an opportunity to operate the Mercedes W14 at the race in Mexico City, set for late October.
“I am exceedingly honored to participate in the FP1 session in Mexico City with the team. This is a dream turned reality,” was Vesti’s reaction to the announcement.
“The thought of partaking in my first official Formula 1 session with Mercedes, the team that has clinched eight straight Constructors’ Championships, is simply mind-blowing.
“A lot of effort has gone into this, and it’s a crucial milestone on my career path.”
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff noted: “Fred has performed exceptionally in the Formula 2 circuit this season.
“Driving in an FP1 session is his next development phase, and we’re eager to provide him this platform.
“He is a promising young talent, who’s not just fast, but also reflective, fully grasping the team’s expectations of him in the car.”
Podium: Race victor Jack Doohan from Invicta Virtuosi Racing, runner-up Frederik Vesti of Prema Racing, and third place holder Victor Martins from ART Grand Prix
Photo credit: Formula F1 Flow Ltd
This will mark Vesti’s second appearance in an F1 car, having previously driven for Mercedes in the Abu Dhabi young driver test the previous year.
Vesti also performs simulator tasks for Mercedes at its Brackley base.
“Fred showed flawless performance in last year’s young driver test, so we’re eager to have him back in the car,” Mercedes’ director of trackside engineering, Andrew Shovlin, commented.
“He’s demonstrated his capabilities in F2 this year, pairing impressive speed with steadiness.
“Fred has been a team member for quite a few years now, significantly contributing to our simulator development and set-up program. As a result, we’re keen to give him his first run in an F1 session during a Grand Prix weekend.”
Currently racing in F2 with Prema, Vesti is going into the summer break in second position after surrendering the championship lead to Theo Pourchaire at Spa.
A crash en route to the grid of the feature race on Sunday rendered him unable to start.
So far, Vesti has scored four victories in 2023 and is now 12 points behind ART Grand Prix driver and Alfa Romeo reserve, Pourchaire, in the rankings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Frederik Vesti
Who is the Formula 2 driver that will participate in the F1 Mexican GP FP1 for Mercedes?
Frederik Vesti, a 21-year-old Danish driver and current F2 frontrunner, is set to participate in the F1 Mexican GP FP1 for Mercedes.
What car will Frederik Vesti be driving in the F1 Mexican GP FP1?
Frederik Vesti will be driving the Mercedes W14 at the Mexico City race, scheduled for late October.
Has Frederik Vesti driven in a Formula 1 car before?
Yes, this will be Vesti’s second time in a Formula 1 car. He previously drove for Mercedes in the Abu Dhabi young driver test the previous year.
What was Frederik Vesti’s reaction to the opportunity to drive in the F1 Mexican GP FP1?
Vesti expressed immense pride and excitement at the opportunity, describing it as a dream come true and a significant step in his career journey.
What is Frederik Vesti’s current standing in the Formula 2 championship?
As of the summer break in 2023, Frederik Vesti is in second place in the F2 championship. He is trailing ART Grand Prix driver and Alfa Romeo reserve, Theo Pourchaire, by 12 points.
6 comments
As a Merc fan, so excited to see fresh talent in the car. Vesti has proved his worth in F2, now its time for F1. Go Vesti!
im kinda bummed tho. Vesti was leading the F2 championship, but lost it at Spa. But he’s still young, plenty of time to catch up.
wow, Vesti in F1?? thats some cool news, can’t wait for the Mexican GP!!
Can’t believe Vesti’s only 21 and already getting a shot at F1. What a legend in the making!
Vesti’s making Denmark proud. Hope he does well in the F1 session. fingers crossed!
Let’s be realistic folks, it’s just a practice run. But still, good for Vesti to get a feel of F1. Hope he moves up soon.