Fernando Alonso didn’t even take to the grid in first practice for the Australian Grand Prix, as Aston Martin’s hot start to the 2026 F1 season continues.
Aston team principal Adrian Newey revealed on Thursday that both Alonso, 44, and teammate Lance Stroll, 27, were unable to complete consecutive laps with vibrations from the Honda power unit causing pain in their hands.
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Newey added that both drivers were concerned about “permanent neurological damage” if they completed more than 25 consecutive laps in Alonso’s case or 15 in Stroll’s case.
Aston therefore looks unlikely to complete Sunday’s 58-lap season opener in Melbourne, while the team’s problems continued on Friday with Alonso exiting FP1.
An Aston spokesman said: “We have identified a suspected power unit issue which will prevent Fernando Alonso from taking part in FP1.”
Minutes before the race, Alonso was seen wearing normal team gear rather than his racing suit, seemingly aware that he would not be racing.
Fernando Alonso absent from Australian FP1 (Getty Images)
The first practice session – the first race weekend session of the new era of engine and chassis regulations in the sport – started with problems, with British rookie Arvid Lindblad stalled just two minutes after exiting the pits.
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The 18-year-old did manage to keep walking midway through the race after being pushed back to the pits.
Elsewhere, Oscar Piastri complained he had “no power” but the McLaren driver’s issues were quickly resolved. His teammate and reigning world champion Lando Norris also experienced equipment issues, but the Papaya-wearing team quickly resolved the issue as well.
It starts at Albert Park at 4am (GMT) on Sunday; qualifying will take place at 5am on Saturday.
