Sick, Fernando Alonso replaced in the press conference by Felipe Drugovitch
Fernando Alonso is "sick" this Thursday in Mexico. He is not participating in the media day and is not present at the circuit. It is therefore the reserve driver, Felipe Drugovich, who is taking over in the press room this weekend in Free Practice 1, replacing the Spaniard.
The Mexican Grand Prix begins with a notable absence this Thursday, as Fernando Alonso, the iconic driver of the Aston Martin team, was forced to miss the traditional media day. According to an official message from the team on social media, the two-time world champion is not feeling well and preferred to focus on his recovery in order to return at 100% for the Friday sessions. Felipe Drugovich, the team’s reserve driver, took his place at the press conference, making a rare appearance as the team’s spokesperson and not quite knowing where to stand upon entering.
Fernando Alonso does not feel well and will therefore be absent from media day. Fernando is focusing on returning in shape for Friday behind the wheel of the AMR24 for Free Practice 2. Aston Martin detailed.
The team has stressed that the priority is the health of the Spanish driver so that he can take part in the free practice sessions and approach Sunday’s race in the best possible conditions.
Felipe Drugovich, current Formula 2 champion and reserve driver at Aston Martin, was called upon to replace Alonso in front of the media. A rare opportunity for the young Brazilian, who expressed his pride in representing the team, while underlining the importance of seeing Alonso come back in good shape for the race sessions. Although he did not specify if Alonso was affected by a specific health issue, Drugovich remained optimistic about his regular teammate’s quick return.
It is worth noting that Fernando Alonso is celebrating his 400th Grand Prix this weekend in Mexico. A record in Formula 1.
Felipe Drugovich will drive in any case on Friday morning for the FP1.