Fernando Alonso will not participate in the first practice session (FP1) of the Hungarian Grand Prix after developing a muscular injury in his back following the Belgian Grand Prix. Aston Martin confirmed this setback as they called upon their reserve driver Felipe Drugovich to fill in for FP1.
The Silverstone-based team stated that Alonso’s condition is still being evaluated, with treatment ongoing and decisions about his involvement in the rest of the weekend yet to be finalized.
Team Statement Details Alonso’s Injury and Driver Replacement
Aston Martin explained,
“In the days following the Belgian Grand Prix, Fernando Alonso has been managing a muscular injury in his back. As he continues with treatment this morning, he has chosen to sit out of FP1,”
highlighting the seriousness of his condition.
They added,
“Felipe Drugovich will drive in FP1 alongside Lance Stroll. A decision will then be made on Fernando’s participation in FP2 and the remainder of the weekend in due course.”
Alonso’s Recent Fitness Struggles and Impact on Performance
This injury adds to what has been a challenging season for Alonso, who has previously dealt with a pinched nerve that affected him at the Chinese Grand Prix. At that event, he had to wear neck protection during the race before retiring due to a brake fire.
Discussing his condition, Alonso acknowledged,
“I was wearing some neck protection because I’ve had a pinched nerve or something these past few days,”
but admitted,
“But in the end, it didn’t help much because I didn’t do many laps.”
Reserve Driver Drugovich Stepping In for FP1 Session
Felipe Drugovich, Aston Martin’s reserve driver since 2022 and the 2022 Formula 2 champion, will take over Alonso’s AMR25 in FP1 for the second time this year, having done so previously at the Bahrain Grand Prix weekend.
Alonso expressed confidence in Drugovich’s abilities during Thursday’s media sessions:
“It will be great to see him in Formula 1. He has an incredible talent. Formula 2 was a demonstration, but we can see it here every day when we work with him.”
He further praised Drugovich’s contributions:
“The simulator work, some of the free practices that he has. He has been always delivering the performance that the team was asking, even with very limited kilometres. It will be interesting to see him in a full-time drive and I hope it happens.”
Next Steps for Alonso and Aston Martin at the Hungarian GP
Alonso must at least participate in Saturday’s qualifying session to compete in the grand prix itself, leaving his weekend participation uncertain but still possible. The team‘s updates on his condition will determine his presence in the remaining sessions and the race.
This situation highlights the physical challenges Alonso faces this season and emphasizes the importance of the reserve driver role within a high-profile team like Aston Martin as plans adapt to unforeseen circumstances.