Leclerc OUT as Ferrari reveals Lewish Hamilton's new teammate ahead of Austrian Grand Prix

Charles Leclerc will sit out the first practice session at the Austrian Grand Prix in Spielberg. 

That is because 21-year‑old Ferrari Driver Academy star Dino Beganovic has been drafted in to take over the SF‑25 for the second time this season—having already debuted in Bahrain’s FP1 earlier in the year.

This change fulfils Ferrari’s obligation under FIA rules requiring each team to run rookie drivers in at least two practice sessions per car. 

Leclerc’s previous absence in Bahrain delivered one session; the Spielberg swap completes half of that quota, leaving two further rookie slots to be taken later—presumably in Lewis Hamilton’s car.

 The Italian squad appears to be protecting Leclerc’s rhythm, as he remains one of their most consistent drivers; Hamilton, by contrast, is still adapting to the new SF‑25.

Beganovic arrives at the Red Bull Ring not merely as a ticking regulatory box but as a genuine asset during a complex weekend. 

Ferrari intends to use him to test significant mid-season upgrades on their SF‑25—new floor specifications and a revised rear‑end suspension targeting the car’s persistent instability issues.

 The Swede currently lies 10th in the Formula 2 standings with three podiums to his name.

“It’s a big moment in red,” Ferrari declared via social media. 

Beganovic himself acknowledged the gravity of driving alongside seven-time world champion Hamilton, saying as per The Express:

“I was not that nervous before FP1… but the day before, I did get a little nervous… I'm taking Charles’ place, and I'm driving next to Lewis Hamilton, in a Ferrari”

Ferrari is walking a tightrope.

While complying with rookie outreach rules, the team must also manage the performance of two star drivers in a car that remains inconsistent. 

Leclerc has shown flashes of brilliance, dividing 25 championship points with Hamilton thus far.

Although, struggles in qualifying and race pace have marred both drivers’ seasons.

At the same time, Beganovic’s presence brings both promise and pressure.

 Failure to uplift the SF‑25’s balance or worse, an FP1 incident, could stall Ferrari’s development programme and raise questions from critics eager to scrutinise every misstep.