Paul Aron set for FP1 outings with Sauber at Silverstone and Budapest

Paul Aron Loaned to Sauber for FP1 Sessions Amid Alpine Driver Speculation

In a move set to heighten speculation around Alpine’s driver lineup, reserve driver Paul Aron has been loaned out to Sauber for two upcoming Formula 1 practice sessions. The Estonian, who finished third in Formula 2 last year, will make his FP1 debut at this weekend’s British Grand Prix in Silverstone, before another outing in Budapest at the Hungarian Grand Prix.

Sauber’s Rookie Requirements and Aron’s Opportunity

The deal addresses Sauber’s rookie requirements for the season, a key regulation requiring two FP1 sessions to feature rookie drivers. With no reserve driver currently in their lineup, Sauber turned to Aron to fill the gap. Driving Nico Hülkenberg’s car in these sessions, Aron is expected to showcase his capabilities before handing control back to the German veteran for the remainder of the race weekends.

This arrangement adds another layer to the intriguing situation unfolding at Alpine, where the team is grappling with its underwhelming driver lineup. After replacing Jack Doohan with Franco Colapinto earlier this season, the Argentine's performance has yet to meet expectations. Colapinto, who joined Alpine following an impressive stint with Williams, is yet to secure his first championship point, leaving his position under scrutiny.

Briatore's Assessment of Colapinto

De facto Alpine boss Flavio Briatore has publicly acknowledged Colapinto’s struggles. “Performances need to improve if he wants to see out the season,” Briatore said recently.

Sources have hinted that Alpine may consider a third driver change during Formula 1’s four-week summer break if Colapinto cannot turn his form around. Aron’s upcoming FP1 appearances are bound to fuel speculation that Alpine could be grooming him for a potential promotion to the race seat.

Alpine’s Options: Grooming Aron or Looking Elsewhere?

While Aron’s appearances naturally make him a candidate, Alpine has reportedly been exploring other options. Reports from The Race suggest Mercedes junior driver Valtteri Bottas could also be in the mix. The timing could align with Alpine’s planned switch to Mercedes power units in 2026, potentially smoothing the way for such a deal.

Though Aron has been out of competitive racing in 2025, his solid performance in Formula 2 sets him up as a viable alternative. Regardless of the team’s ultimate decision, Aron’s runs in Silverstone and Budapest could play a pivotal role in shaping Alpine’s post-summer lineup.

Sauber’s Perspective: Fulfilling Rookie Obligations

For now, Sauber aims to fulfill its rookie obligations with Aron, allowing Gabriele Bortoleto, Hülkenberg’s teammate and another rookie, to focus solely on his race commitments. With teams jockeying for mid-season improvements, all eyes will be on Aron as he gets his first taste of FP1 action.

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