Alonso set to return to action in FP2 despite injuries

Having missed the opening practice session at the Hungarian Grand Prix, Aston Martin’s two-time F1 champion Fernando Alonso will return to action in the late afternoon session. F1Technical's senior writer Balázs Szabo reports from the Hungaroring.

Two-time F1 champion Fernando Alonso was forced to miss the opening practice at this weekend's Hungarian Grand Prix due to a "muscular injury in his back."

The Spaniard was be unable to take part in the opening one-hour practice session at the Hungaroringdue to a "muscular injury in his back" which developed after the Belgian GP.

Aston Martin has issued a short statement on Friday morning, confirming that Alonso would continue to receive treatment. Former Formula 2 champion Felipe Drugovich, who acts as the Silverstone-based team's reserve driver, replaced Alonso in FP1.

"In the days following the Belgian Grand Prix, Fernando Alonso has been managing a muscular injury in his back. As he continues with treatment this morning, he has chosen to sit out of FP1," the team stated.

"Felipe Drugovich will drive in FP1 alongside Lance Stroll. A decision will then be made on Fernando’s participation in FP2 and the remainder of the weekend in due course."

Following the opening practice, the British outfit confirmed Alonso will return to action for the second practice session.

“Fernando will be back in the AMR25 for FP2 this afternoon. He chose to sit out the opening practice session to limit his time in the car as he manages a muscular injury in his back.

“Having undergone further treatment this morning and medically cleared by the FIA, Fernando will be back in the AMR25 alongside Lance.

“Felipe Drugovich delivered a busy FP1 programme with Lance earlier today, collecting important data as the team continues to evaluate recent car updates.”