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Aston Martin Taps F2 Rookie Cian Shields for Abu Dhabi FP1 Debut

The team will sit Alonso and Stroll to satisfy the 2025 rule requiring rookie outings in both cars.

Overview

  • Shields will take over Alonso’s car for first practice at Yas Marina, with Jak Crawford stepping into Stroll’s seat.
  • The 20-year-old Scotsman has completed 29 Formula 2 starts this season without scoring, with a best finish of 11th.
  • The FP1 run contributes to Aston Martin meeting the requirement to field drivers with no more than two grands prix twice per car in 2025.
  • Aston Martin previously used Felipe Drugovich in Alonso’s car, including a short-notice Hungaroring appearance that was not formally notified to the FIA.
  • Separately, McLaren added F2 champion Leonardo Fornaroli and Richard Verschoor to its junior driver programme.