Fernando Alonso recovers from injury, achieving an impressive fifth position in the Hungarian preliminary race
Fernando Alonso Returns to Action Despite Back Injury at Hungarian Grand Prix
Fernando Alonso, the two-time Formula One World Champion, made a comeback for Aston Martin in the second free practice session (FP2) of the Hungarian Grand Prix, despite sustaining a muscular injury in his lumbar back during the Belgian Grand Prix.
Alonso's return was marked by a strong performance, as he set the fifth fastest time in FP2. His teammate, Lance Stroll, also impressed, finishing in a position higher than fourth. Aston Martin posted one of the best free practice sessions of the season, indicating that the team is in good form.
Alonso's absence was felt in the first practice session (FP1), where his seat was filled by Felipe Drugovich, who finished in 16th position.
Despite the discomfort caused by sitting and the stresses from bumps and corners, Alonso described the pain as bearable. He managed the injury by skipping FP1 and using air cushions and other cockpit modifications, allowing him to return without significant pain for FP2.
Alonso's back injury did not prevent him from competing effectively; he qualified fifth at the Hungarian GP and said it was “worth it” to race rather than miss the weekend. Aston Martin's team principal expressed cautious optimism about his condition, emphasizing cautious management with the expectation Alonso would be fine to continue racing with reduced laps if necessary.
The future implications involve managing the injury carefully over the remaining races until the summer break, after which Alonso expects to rest and recover. The adjustments made to the car and cockpit have been effective so far, but the injury does require ongoing management.
It remains to be seen if Aston Martin can keep up the pace for the rest of the Hungarian Grand Prix weekend. Alonso's competitive spirit and the team's strong performance in FP2 suggest that they are in a good position to challenge for a top finish.
The back injury Fernando Alonso sustained didn't hamper his average performance, as demonstrated by his fifth fastest time in the second free practice session. His team, Aston Martin, displayed a strong form during the free practice sessions, placing them in a competitive position for the Hungarian Grand Prix.
