Aston Martin will run two F2 drivers in FP1 in Abu Dhabi

The pilot of Formula 2Cian Shields will take to the track this week in Abu Dhabi for Free Practice 1 of the Grand Prix. He will be driving the AMR25.Aston Martintaking the place of Fernando AlonsoJak Crawford, who was announced last month to take the seat of Lance stroll during FP1, will complete a crew composed entirely of rookies.

The 20-year-old Briton, who is currently competing in his first full season in Formula 2, will thus complete his first laps in Formula 1 on the occasion of the season's closing round.

“I am extremely grateful to have the opportunity to drive in FP1 with Aston Martin Aramco, Cian Shields confirmed this via the official announcement. I've learned a lot working with the team this year, both in the simulator and during TPC (Testing of Previous Cars), and now being given the AMR25 for a Grand Prix weekend is a very important moment for me. I'm looking forward to contributing to the program on Friday and making the most of this experience.

And Gerry Hughes, Aston Martin's chief engineer in F1, added: “Cian has worked closely with our team throughout the year, racking up miles behind the wheel of the AMR TPC Formula 1 cars and deepening his understanding of the AMR25 through a structured simulation program. His feedback and professionalism have always been excellent, and he has continued to improve with every opportunity. This upcoming FP1 session is a fantastic way to end the year, putting the knowledge and experience he has gained to good use for the team in the final race of the season.”

He has already accumulated over 500 km driving a Formula 1 car as part of TPC this season.

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