This weekend’s Hungarian Grand Prix will feature a notable change as Paul Aron steps into an F1 car for his second appearance this year. The Estonian driver, loaned to Sauber from Alpine, will replace Nico Hulkenberg in the free practice session at the Hungaroring, fulfilling the rookie participation rule in F1.
Aron’s involvement in FP1 is part of the mandatory requirement where each team must allocate two practice sessions per car to a rookie driver. Sauber, however, only needs to provide two such sessions overall, as their other driver, Gabriel Bortoleto, is in his rookie season and already meets the rookie participation standards.
The Role of Alpine Reserve Paul Aron in Formula 1
Paul Aron currently serves as Alpine’s test and reserve driver, contributing to the team’s efforts at their Enstone factory and standing ready to substitute for Pierre Gasly or Franco Colapinto if necessary. The 21-year-old secured this role after finishing third in the 2024 Formula 2 season, behind fellow F1 drivers Gabriel Bortoleto and Isack Hadjar.
While serving as a reserve, Aron is likely eager to advance to a full-time F1 seat. His opportunity could increase, as Alpine’s second driver, Franco Colapinto, has struggled to score points since replacing Jack Doohan from the Imola round onwards. Alpine currently stands last in the 2025 constructors‘ championship, trailing Haas by 15 points in a challenging season.
Context and Implications of the Rookie Driver Swap at the Hungaroring
Sauber’s decision to run Aron in the free practice session at the Hungarian GP provides the rookie driver valuable track time and exposure in a competitive F1 environment. This opportunity aligns with F1’s regulations designed to give rookies experience during official race weekends. Meanwhile, Alpine’s struggles and reliance on young talent like Aron highlight the team’s focus on rebuilding and looking towards future talent.
The rookie swap at the Hungarian GP also illustrates the strategic collaboration between teams in managing driver lineups and fulfilling regulatory requirements. For Aron, impressing during these sessions could be crucial for his chances of securing a permanent race seat in the coming seasons.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is number 13 banned in F1?
A. Certainly, the number 13 is permitted. Actually, Pastor Maldonado selected #13 when the permanent numbering system started in 2014. While some cultures view 13 as unlucky, F1 let drivers make their own choice about numbers.
Q. Which F1 driver has ADHD?
A. Lewis Hamilton’s ADHD and dyslexia have influenced both his racing career and personal life. His journey changes the view of success in Formula 1, highlighting the importance of recognizing learning differences.
Q. Is 69 allowed in F1?
A. F1 Driver Number Rules
Selecting a number: Every driver can pick a permanent number between 2 and 99, except for 17, to use during their F1 career.