As the 2025 Hungarian Grand Prix weekend begins at the Hungaroring, Fernando Alonso has been confirmed to miss Free Practice 1 (FP1) due to a muscular injury in his back. The 44‑year‑old Spaniard has been managing the problem since his disappointing outing at Spa, and Aston Martin have opted to prioritise his recovery before returning him to the car later in the weekend.
The Injury and Decision to Sit Out FP1
Aston Martin issued the following statement:
“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 FP1. 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.”
Team Chief Trackside Officer Mike Krack explained their reasoning:
“We elected to increase the recovery time and skip FP1, which is the least important session. A few extra hours of rest could make a big difference.”
Drugovich Steps In for FP1
In Alonso’s absence, Aston Martin’s reserve driver Felipe Drugovich—the 2022 Formula 2 champion—takes the wheel of the AMR25 during FP1.
While used to limited running, Drugovich has been on the cusp of an F1 debut, having previously stood in for Lance Stroll in testing and been on standby for several weekends.
Alonso acknowledged Drugovich’s professionalism when asked:
“It will be great to see him in Formula 1—they’re lucky to have him. He has shown incredible talent in F2, and we see it every day in the garage.”
Will Alonso Return for FP2, Qualifying & the Race?
As of Friday morning, Aston Martin had made no decision regarding Alonso’s participation beyond FP1.
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FP2, scheduled for the afternoon, remains a possibility—but somewhat unlikely if discomfort persists.
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Qualifying and the race itself remain under assessment—they will proceed only if Alonso’s condition improves significantly.
If Alonso is unable to return, Drugovich could potentially contest FP2, qualifying, and even the race—though substitute entries remain rare and would mark a major shift in the team’s plans.
Why This Matters
Alonso’s absence affects Aston Martin in multiple ways:
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Sporting challenge: Alonso was expected to challenge for points and potentially a top-10 finish at the tight Hungaroring. His absence heightens risk to the team’s Constructors’ points haul.
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Strategic uncertainty: With one driver out of data gathering, Aston Martin’s setup and pace analysis for FP2 and Quali will be hampered.
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Experience lost: As the older grid member, Alonso’s setup feedback and weekend steering under tricky conditions often guide team strategy.
Aston Martin currently sit eight in the Constructors’ standings, only a single point ahead of Haas—meaning every potential point this weekend is vital.
What Hungaroring Represents for Alonso
Hungaroring has special meaning for Alonso: it’s where he took his maiden Formula 1 victory with Renault in 2003—a win that launched him toward the first of two world titles. Even at 44, he’s shown he still pushes the car’s limits, though his body is showing the toll of a long career.
His absence in FP1 might be precautionary—but it reflects broader challenges that come with longevity in a sport often criticised for pushing drivers to physical extremes.
Final Word: Recovery Over Risk
Missing FP1 is an unusual decision for a driver of Alonso’s discipline and competitiveness—but it’s a smart one. Aston Martin are playing the long game: ensuring he’s fit for FP2, Qualifying, and most importantly, race pace—where the points really count.
Alonso’s career has been defined by resilience, and his team is giving him the time and care needed to fight on. With FP2 looming, eyes will be on his return to the cockpit and whether recovery allows him to compete for more scoring positions as Hungary weekend unfolds.
