Fernando Alonso skips Belgian GP FP1 as Aston Martin junior driver steps in

Fernando Alonso will not take part in the first practice session of the Belgian Grand Prix after Aston Martin named a junior driver to stand in for him.

What happened?

Aston Martin confirmed on 12 July 2026 that Fernando Alonso would skip FP1 at Spa-Francorchamps. The team said Felipe Drugovich, their reserve driver, would take Alonso’s seat in the AMR26. The session starts at 11:30 local time on Thursday, 24 July 2026. No reason for Alonso’s absence was given beyond the team’s rotation policy.

Why it matters for Fernando Alonso

The move keeps Alonso fresh for the rest of the season. Spa’s long, high-speed corners test stamina, so skipping FP1 can help preserve the Spaniard’s energy. Drugovich, 25, gets his first chance to run in a current-season F1 car ahead of possible future outings. Alonso, 44, remains Aston Martin’s race driver for the Belgian Grand Prix itself.

What comes next?

Alonso is scheduled to return for FP2 on Friday, 25 July 2026. Drugovich will not take part in the race weekend beyond FP1. The team’s decision reflects its policy of giving junior drivers track time without disrupting Alonso’s race preparations. The Belgian Grand Prix remains on track for its traditional summer slot.