Alpine Academy driver Paul Aron is set to make his Formula 1 FP1 debut this weekend at the British Grand Prix. This comes after a loan agreement between Alpine and Sauber. Aron will also take part in FP1 at the Hungarian Grand Prix.
Aron, who finished third in the 2024 Formula 2 Championship, is currently focused on simulator work. For Alpine, the team battles from 10th in the Constructors’ standings. Despite not racing competitively this season, Aron remains a key part of Alpine’s reserve roster, alongside Jack Doohan. The Australian began the season in a race seat before being replaced by Franco Colapinto at Imola.
Under the current F1 rules, teams must allocate four FP1 sessions to rookie drivers. Unless they field a rookie driver, demoting it down to 2 sessions. As Gabriel Bortoleto meets that criteria as a rookie, Aron will step in for Nico Hülkenberg during his outings.
“It is no secret that my desire is to one day race full-time in Formula 1. So any chance to be on track in a competitive environment is an important stepping stone,” said Aron.
“While I continue to focus on my development with Alpine, I do look forward to the two sessions with Kick Sauber. I will be giving my maximum effort to them at Silverstone and Budapest.”
Flavio’s thoughts on the move
Flavio Briatore, Alpine’s Executive Advisor, said the arrangement was mutually beneficial:
“It is in our interests to maximise any driving opportunities for our young talent, so it is good to have an agreement with Sauber. Paul was a frontrunner in F2. So this is an opportunity for him and the team to continue his progress and gain valuable track time.”
In addition to his loaned sessions with Kick Sauber, Aron is also set to participate in three FP1 sessions for Alpine later this year. With dates to be announced.
