Championship leader Kimi Antonelli will be among five drivers to sit out first practice for the Hungarian Grand Prix. Each Formula 1 team must run a rookie in at least two practice sessions, and the Hungaroring's familiarity allows teams to fulfill this obligation. Antonelli will be replaced by Mercedes reserve driver Frederik Vesti. Vesti previously drove Antonelli's car in Barcelona.

George Russell also needs to hand his car over to a rookie and will miss two practice sessions. Reigning Formula 2 champion Leonardo Fornaroli will take over Oscar Piastri's McLaren. Fornaroli has been linked to a Haas seat for next year, with Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu stating they are keeping options open.

Haas' Oliver Bearman will miss practice as Ryo Hirakawa gets his second outing. Paul Aron will drive Franco Colapinto's Alpine for his third session of 2026. Former IndyCar star Colton Herta will also drive Valtteri Bottas' Cadillac. The Hungarian Grand Prix sessions will be broadcast live on Sky Sports F1.