Paul Aron to drive for Alpine in FP1 at Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

Alpine F1 Team have confirmed that Paul Aron will be driving for the team in the opening practice session of this weekend’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

The Estonian driver has already had previous experience on an F1 race weekend, driving for Sauber at Silverstone and Budapest, and for Alpine at Monza.

Aron, who also driven for the team as part of their Testing of Previous Cars Programme (TPC), will get another chance in the A525, replacing Pierre Gasly.

Speaking at the announcement, Aron – who finished third in the 2024 Formula 2 Drivers’ Championship – spoke of his excitement at getting back into the car for Alpine.

“I am looking forward to being back behind the wheel of the A525 this weekend in Abu Dhabi for my third Free Practice session with the team, and fifth of the season,” said Aron. The performances in Monza and Mexico City were very positive for my personal development as a driver and I’m looking forward to building on that for a final time this year.

“I really enjoyed the opportunity to take part in the post-season test at this track last year - a very fond memory for me as it was my first time in a Formula One car - and I am grateful to the team for giving me this latest opportunity again in Abu Dhabi. I will do my best to help set up a successful race weekend for the team.”