Fernando Alonso Misses Hungarian GP’s FP1 Due to Back Injury
Fernando Alonso Misses Opening Practice at Hungarian Grand Prix Due to Back Injury
Budapest, Hungary — Formula 1 veteran Fernando Alonso will miss the opening practice session of the Hungarian Grand Prix on Friday following a muscular injury in his back, casting doubt over his participation in the remainder of the race weekend. Aston Martin confirmed their reserve driver, Felipe Drugovich, would step in for Alonso during Free Practice 1.
The announcement, made Friday morning, revealed that Alonso has been dealing with the issue since last weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix. Although the 44-year-old Spaniard did not mention the injury during Thursday’s media session, Aston Martin’s statement shed light on the matter, emphasizing that the decision to replace Alonso in FP1 was made to manage his recovery.
Aston Martin also stated that Alonso’s involvement in the second practice session, as well as the subsequent events of the weekend, will be determined later on.
Felipe Drugovich Steps In for FP1
Drugovich, no stranger to Formula 1 Fridays, is set to bring valuable experience to the team during FP1. The 25-year-old Brazilian has participated in six practice sessions for Aston Martin, including FP1 earlier this season at the Bahrain Grand Prix. Signed as a development driver after clinching the 2022 Formula 2 championship, Drugovich has established himself as one of the team’s trusted options for situations like these.
Fan Concerns Over Alonso’s Fitness
Aston Martin fans will now keep a close watch on Alonso’s fitness updates, as his absence for the remainder of the weekend could significantly impact the team’s performance and competitiveness on the Hungaroring circuit.
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