F1 Officially Issues Health Update on Fernando Alonso During…read more
Fernando Alonso has been forced to withdraw from the first practice session (FP1) at the Hungarian Grand Prix due to a back injury that has been troubling him since the Belgian Grand Prix. Aston Martin released an official update confirming the two-time world champion is continuing to receive treatment for a muscular issue and, as a precaution, has opted to miss the opening session in Budapest.
In his place, Aston Martin’s reserve driver Felipe Drugovich stepped in to drive alongside Lance Stroll during FP1. The team stated that a final decision on Alonso’s involvement in the remaining sessions of the race weekend—including FP2, qualifying, and the race itself—will be made soon.
“Since the conclusion of the Belgian Grand Prix, Fernando Alonso has been dealing with a muscular problem in his back,” the team explained in their announcement. “As he continues to undergo treatment this morning, he has decided to sit out FP1. Felipe Drugovich will take his place for the session. We will assess Fernando’s condition and confirm his availability for the rest of the weekend shortly.”
The development adds to what has already been a challenging season for the veteran driver. Alonso, who turned 44 recently, has endured a string of disappointing results in the 2025 Formula 1 campaign. He currently sits 15th in the Drivers’ Championship standings—two spots behind his younger teammate, Lance Stroll.
So far this season, Alonso has struggled to match the pace of the frontrunners, with his best result being a seventh-place finish. The Aston Martin AMR25 has not lived up to expectations, and both drivers have been vocal about the team’s lack of competitiveness. Alonso has appeared visibly frustrated in recent races as he battles both the performance of the car and now his own physical limitations.
His absence from FP1 puts him at a disadvantage for the remainder of the Hungarian Grand Prix weekend, assuming he is declared fit to return for later sessions. Missing valuable track time on Friday could severely hinder his preparation for qualifying and the race on Sunday, especially at a circuit like the Hungaroring, where precision and rhythm are key.
As the Formula 1 calendar approaches its mid-season summer break, Alonso will be hoping for a chance to rest, recover, and reflect. The break could offer a crucial opportunity for him to heal fully and for the team to reassess their strategies for the second half of the season. Whether or not he takes part in the rest of the Hungarian GP remains uncertain, but all eyes will be on Aston Martin’s next update regarding his fitness.
For now, the team and fans alike are keeping their fingers crossed that Alonso will be able to bounce back soon, both physically and competitively, as the 2025 F1 season continues to unfold.
