Fernando Alonso. Photo: Race Pictures

Aston Martin to replace Alonso and hand F1 debut to British driver

15:30, 02 Dec

byDrew Murphy

Aston Martin has handed a Formula 1 debut to Scottish driver Cian Shields in the first session of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Fernando Alonso will sit out of the first session to allow the Scot to make his F1 weekend debut.

Cian Shields. Photo: RacePictures

Shields will join Formula 2 rival Jak Crawford as Aston Martin fulfils the last of their mandatory FP1 running for rookie drivers.

This follows the news that Aston Martin announced Crawford would become their third driver for the upcoming 2026 season.

Shields is competing in his first F2 campaign this year and cannot wait to work with the Silverstone-based team on a race weekend.

He said: “I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to drive in FP1 with Aston Martin Aramco.

Cian Shields racing in Formula 2 this season. Photo: RacePictures

“I’ve learned so much working with the team this year, both in the simulator and through my TPC testing, and to now be trusted with the AMR25 on a Grand Prix weekend is a huge moment for me.

“I’m looking forward to contributing to the programme on Friday and making the most of the experience.”

Aston Martin’s Chief Engineer F1 Evolution Gerry Hughes added: “Cian has worked closely with our team throughout the year, building mileage in AMR TPC Formula One machinery and deepening his understanding of the AMR25 through a structured simulator programme.

“His feedback and professionalism have been consistently strong, and he has continued to develop with every opportunity.

"This upcoming FP1 session is a fantastic way to round out the year, putting the knowledge and experience he has gained to good use for the team at the final race of the season.”

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