Rookie

A Rookie is a driver competing in their first season at a particular level of motorsport competition, typically characterized by limited experience in that specific racing series.

In most major racing series like Formula 1, NASCAR, and IndyCar, first-year drivers are officially designated as rookies and may be required to display special markings on their cars. Many championships feature a "Rookie of the Year" award, recognizing the most successful newcomer of the season.

Rookie status is determined by specific criteria that vary between racing organizations. For example, in NASCAR, a driver must not have competed in more than a certain number of races in previous seasons to maintain rookie eligibility, while in Formula 1, any driver in their debut season is considered a rookie regardless of their experience in other categories.