Aron in action with Alpine in Monza opening practice

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Alpine has confirmed that their reserve driver, Paul Aron, will step into Franco Colapinto’s A525 for the opening free practice session at this weekend’s Italian Grand Prix at Monza.

The decision marks Aron’s first official race weekend appearance with the Enstone-based team, fulfilling the second of Alpine’s four mandatory rookie FP1 sessions for the 2025 season.

Previously, only Ryo Hirakawa, who is no longer affiliated with the French outfit, had been handed an FP1 outing, the Japanese driver deputising for fellow reserve Jack Doohan at Suzuka.

Aron Ready to Make an Impact

Aron expressed his excitement ahead of his Monza debut with Alpine.

“I'm looking forward to getting behind the wheel of the A525 for my first Grand Prix weekend appearance with the team in Monza,” said the 21-year-old Estonian.

This outing will be his third FP1 session overall, having driven for Sauber at Silverstone and the Hungaroring earlier this year.

I've got to know everyone really well since I joined at the end of last year as test and reserve driver and appreciate the trust the team has given me to drive in Friday's Free Practice 1.

“I'm aiming to do as good a job as possible to help set up the car for the whole weekend and be in the best position to have a competitive race weekend from the outset.

Read also: McLaren hands Dunne second FP1 outing at Monza

“Personally, it will be great to build on the experience I've gained from the simulator and testing opportunities. I'll make sure I use this to have an enjoyable and productive session for both me and the team."

Alpine’s rookie schedule means that Pierre Gasly will miss two of the team’s final FP1 sessions of the season. Both occasions are expected to see Aron return to the A525, providing him with further opportunities to gain experience and contribute to the team’s weekend preparation.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.