Aston Martin introduced its B-spec car at the Hungaroring, with team boss Adrian Newey noting “promising results” from the initial track session. The upgrade package is the first part of a planned overhaul for the chassis, with further developments anticipated.
During Free Practice 1, Fernando Alonso achieved the 13th fastest time, which represented a notable improvement from the team’s previous performance margins. However, the session was marked by an “unexpected” mechanical failure on Lance Stroll’s car, identified as a suspected rear suspension issue, less than 40 minutes into its debut.
Unexpected Mechanical Issue and Honda Vibrations
The mechanical failure on Lance Stroll’s car occurred at Turn Three, leading to a spin and a red flag during the session. Adrian Newey confirmed that the area involved in the failure was not part of the recent changes to the car, making the incident unexpected. The team is actively working to understand the cause of the problem.
Newey also addressed concerns regarding oscillations, which were visible on both drivers’ onboard cameras during FP1. These vibrations suggested a return of the Honda engine-related issues that the team encountered earlier in the year. Newey indicated that Honda is aware of the data and is working on a solution for these oscillations.
During the session, Alonso received radio instructions to avoid the kerbs. Newey clarified that this was to ensure accurate aero data acquisition, as kerb usage can introduce inconsistencies that corrupt the data being collected from the new package.
Upgrade Plans and Future Steps
The B-spec car at the Hungaroring represents the first phase of Aston Martin’s chassis overhaul. Newey revealed that a second part of the upgrade is scheduled to arrive at Zandvoort after the summer break, coinciding with Honda’s sole engine upgrade. A third phase of the chassis upgrade is planned for either Monza or Baku in September.
Newey acknowledged the team is in a “big catch-up game” and stated that while the upgrade would not immediately make them the quickest car, it represents a significant step forward. The team has been operating with limited spare parts for the new package, necessitating careful management during its initial deployment.
The performance of this upgrade is considered important for retaining Fernando Alonso, who is seen as bringing substantial value to the team through his feedback and ability. Newey expressed confidence in Alonso’s enjoyment with the team and the continuation of their relationship.
Session Highlights and Competitor Performance
In FP1, Charles Leclerc of Ferrari set the fastest time with a 1m 19.075s, finishing half a second ahead of Red Bull’s Max Verstappen. Leclerc’s session, however, ended early due to a mechanical issue that brought his car to a halt in the pit lane entry.
Many teams brought upgrades to Budapest, and the session saw several drivers, including five rookies, on track. George Russell of Mercedes initially topped the times before Leclerc and Verstappen improved their laps. Lewis Hamilton, also of Mercedes, finished third fastest, but reported issues with his car’s ride being too stiff.
Other notable performances included Isack Hadjar, who placed fourth for Red Bull, and Gabriel Bortoleto of Audi in sixth. Mercedes reserve driver Frederik Vesti, driving for championship leader Kimi Antonelli, secured seventh place. The top ten was rounded out by Audi’s Nico Hulkenberg and the Racing Bulls drivers Arvid Lindblad and Liam Lawson.
The Hungaroring event marks the 40th Hungarian Grand Prix, with teams continuing to focus on qualifying simulations during the practice sessions.
Source: the-race.com
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Joel Kavanagh is a Sports News Writer at News-GB. He started on a Midlands sports desk. He focuses on rugby union, golf and boxing and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. He holds a degree in Journalism from De Montfort University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Leicester, he plays amateur rugby and follows the fight calendar. “In sport news, the first ten minutes decide everything.”