Alpine Juniors Aron and Maini Get F1 Track Time in Abu Dhabi

Alpine is providing its test and reserve drivers, Paul Aron and Kush Maini, with significant track time at Yas Marina, signaling a strong commitment to developing its junior talent as the 2025 Formula 1 season concludes.

Why it matters:

This initiative underscores Alpine's strategy to nurture its next generation of drivers by integrating them into official F1 sessions. For Aron and Maini, these opportunities are crucial for their development, offering invaluable experience in current-spec F1 machinery, which is vital for any aspiring Grand Prix driver.

The Details:

• Paul Aron's FP1 Outing: Aron will participate in Friday's FP1 session, replacing Pierre Gasly. This marks his third FP1 appearance of the season, following impressive performances at Monza and Mexico City.
  • He expressed enthusiasm to build on his previous outings, aiming to contribute to a successful race weekend for the team. This builds on his experience from last year's post-season test at Yas Marina, which was his first time in an F1 car.
• Kush Maini's Post-Season Test: Maini is set to drive the A525 in the official post-season Young Driver Test next Tuesday. This will be his first official experience in a current F1 car.
  • Maini, fresh from his Formula 2 campaign with DAMS, is already deeply involved in Alpine's TPC and simulator programs. He looks forward to experiencing the performance level of an F1 car on a familiar track and contributing to the team's program.
• Alpine's Rationale: Team Sporting Director Steve Nielsen emphasized the importance of giving test and reserve drivers "all-important seat time" in a modern F1 car. He praised both drivers' hard work and preparation in the simulator and TPC programs.
  • Nielsen anticipates strong performances from both drivers, highlighting their readiness for these F1 opportunities.

What's next:

These sessions are critical proving grounds for Aron and Maini, offering them a chance to demonstrate their capabilities in a high-pressure F1 environment. Strong showings could further solidify their roles within the Alpine Academy and potentially pave the way for future F1 opportunities. Alpine's continued investment in its junior program through meaningful track time suggests a clear path for its emerging talent, aligning with the team's long-term competitive ambitions in Formula 1.