Aston Martin achieved a rare feat by having both Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll reach the final stage of the 2025 Formula 1 qualifying at the Hungarian Grand Prix, with the drivers securing fifth and sixth positions on the grid. This marked a notable turnaround for the team, which had only seen Alonso reach Q3 four times so far this season and Stroll just once.

Previously, Aston Martin struggled to consistently place both cars in strong positions during qualifying. Aside from the Imola race in May, where both drivers started inside the top 10, the team’s performance had been less impressive. For example, at Spa, both Aston Martins were the slowest in qualifying and were knocked out in Q1, with Stroll relegated to a pitlane start due to parc fermé changes made by drivers ahead of him.

Track Characteristics Played Key Role in Aston Martin’s Breakthrough

Alonso highlighted that the Hungaroring’s layout was a major factor in the team’s improved qualifying results rather than any new technical developments. The circuit’s nature, with less time spent at full throttle and fewer demanding straights, suited the AMR25’s strengths, allowing the cars to perform closer to the leading Ferraris and Red Bulls.

I would say that it’s track characteristics, to be honest,

Alonso explained.

We didn’t change the car massively since Spa seven days ago. No new parts for anybody to this race.

—Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin Racing

He elaborated,

Just the layout, the characteristics of the circuit is just suiting our car, apparently – and it would be nice to understand this, why the car is operating in this sweet spot here because if we understand that, we can use it in the next few races.

Technical Adjustments and Challenges Ahead

The AMR25 has endured ongoing issues this season, including poor straight-line speed and difficulties managing rear tire temperatures, partly due to a front-end design that tends to cause understeer. To combat these challenges, Aston Martin introduced upgrades such as a new floor at Imola and a revised front wing tested at Spa, aiming to improve airflow and overall aerodynamic efficiency.

Team principal and CEO Andy Cowell previously emphasized that efforts were focused on directing airflow improvements toward the underfloor, diffuser, and rear wing elements to boost performance. However, the team has recognized the need to prioritize race pace alongside qualifying results, acknowledging in Spain that race performance has lagged behind qualifying improvements.

Race Day Outlook and Team Expectations

Despite their strong qualifying, Alonso remains cautious about Sunday’s race prospects, citing the potential threat from fast competitors like Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton. He expressed a pragmatic view, hoping to maintain their starting positions to maximize points before the mid-season summer break.

I think it [Sunday’s race] is going to be difficult, to be honest,

Alonso said.

I would like if we can finish in the same positions as we start. Fifth and sixth will be lovely in terms of points for the team before summer break and that will be the first target.

He also noted,

We need to understand as well that there are some threats from behind, some fast cars. Max [Verstappen] is starting behind [in eighth], Lewis [Hamilton, 12th] as well, so it’s not going to be easy.