Aston Martin is introducing a completely new line-up during the first free practice for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. It has been known for some time that Jak Crawford would take over Lance Stroll‘s session, but now – in accordance with the 2025 regulations – Fernando Alonso is also handing over his car. Formula 2 rookie Cian Shields will make his VT1 debut during the first practice rounds at Yas Marina.
It is customary for teams to grant one of their cars to a rookie during VT1 in a regular race weekend; according to the strict FIA rules, all drivers must hand over their car twice a season. However, Aston Martin still had two rookie sessions left for this year. As a result, both Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll are handing over their cars during the final race in Abu Dhabi. Jak Crawford, who also took a seat in the AMR25 in Mexico City, is back again. Alongside him, British driver Cian Shields is making his debut.
Contributing to the Team
The 20-year-old Shields is participating in his first Formula 2 season this year, after competing in Formula 3 last year. This will not be the first time he has been behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car; he previously tested for Aston Martin during a special TPC session. “I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to drive with Aston Martin in VT1,” he responded in an official press release. “I have learned so much this year from working with the team, both in the simulator and during my TPC tests. The fact that I can now use the AMR25 during a Grand Prix weekend is very special. I look forward to contributing on Friday and enjoying it to the fullest.”
“Cian has been working closely with us all year,” added chief engineer Gerry Hughes. “His feedback and professionalism have been consistently strong, and he has continued to develop at every opportunity. This upcoming free practice is a fantastic way to end the year, with the knowledge and experience he has gained coming in handy during this final race of the season.” Aston Martin is currently fighting for sixth place in the constructors’ standings. The team is thirteen points behind Racing Bulls and has a seven-point lead over Haas.
