Aston Martin confirm driver replacement ahead Australia GP due to Alonso’s health…read more
In a significant development ahead of the 2025 Formula 1 season opener in Australia, Aston Martin has announced that Fernando Alonso will not participate in the race due to health concerns. The two-time World Champion has been grappling with health issues since late 2024, leading to this decision. Reserve driver Felipe Drugovich is set to step in for Alonso at the Australian Grand Prix.
Alonso’s Health Struggles
Fernando Alonso’s health challenges became public during the latter part of the 2024 season. In October 2024, he was absent from media duties at the Mexican Grand Prix due to an intestinal infection. Aston Martin released a statement at the time, noting that Alonso had returned to Europe for specialist treatment but was expected to participate in the race weekend.
Despite his return, Alonso’s struggles persisted. At the Brazilian Grand Prix in November 2024, he was visibly in discomfort and had to be assisted out of his car post-race, attributing his pain to the excessive bouncing of his car on the resurfaced track. He emphasized the importance of finishing the race for his team, despite the physical toll it took on him.
These health issues have now culminated in the decision for Alonso to sit out the Australian Grand Prix, allowing him time to recover fully.
Felipe Drugovich: The Stand-In
Felipe Drugovich, Aston Martin’s reserve driver, will replace Alonso for the Australian Grand Prix. Drugovich, the 2022 Formula 2 champion, has previously participated in practice sessions for Aston Martin, including the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in 2022 and 2023, as well as the Italian Grand Prix in 2023.
His familiarity with the team’s operations and the AMR25 car positions him as a competent substitute for Alonso. Drugovich expressed his readiness for the opportunity, stating, “I’ve spent a lot of the year working on the development of this car in the team’s simulator, so it will be valuable for me to feel the correlation between the sim and the real thing.”
Aston Martin’s Preparations and Challenges
The lead-up to the 2025 season has been challenging for Aston Martin. Both Alonso and his teammate Lance Stroll were affected by a virus during the final testing sessions, limiting their time on track. This disrupted the team’s preparations, with the AMR25 not showcasing its full potential during the tests. Alonso expressed dissatisfaction with the limited testing time but acknowledged improvements in the car compared to the 2024 model.
The team’s performance in 2024 was inconsistent, with no podium finishes and fluctuating results. However, significant investments have been made in a new factory and an advanced simulator. Additionally, the anticipated arrival of renowned engineer Adrian Newey in March 2025 is expected to bolster the team’s competitiveness, with plans to see the impact of his expertise in the 2026 season.
Implications for the Season Opener
Alonso’s absence from the Australian Grand Prix is a setback for Aston Martin. His experience and skill have been pivotal in the team’s development, and his presence on the grid adds significant value. However, Drugovich’s appointment reflects the team’s confidence in his abilities to deliver a solid performance.
The Australian Grand Prix will serve as a critical assessment of Aston Martin’s preparations and Drugovich’s capability to compete at the highest level. The team aims to gather valuable data and insights to enhance their performance in subsequent races.
Looking Ahead
Aston Martin remains optimistic about Alonso’s recovery and return to racing. His contract with the team extends beyond 2025, indicating a long-term commitment to their collaborative goals. The team’s focus is on ensuring Alonso’s health and well-being, with the expectation that he will rejoin the team once he has fully recovered.
The 2025 season presents both challenges and opportunities for Aston Martin. With the integration of new technologies, facilities, and personnel, the team is poised to make significant strides. Alonso’s temporary absence is a hurdle, but with Drugovich stepping in, Aston Martin aims to maintain its competitive edge and achieve its objectives for the season.
