Fernando Alonso described the upgrade package introduced by Aston Martin at the Hungarian GP as “very encouraging.” Speaking on Friday (24) following the opening practice sessions, the Spaniard explained that the new parts are generally performing as expected. However, he noted that the work is far from complete, as many more steps are needed for the team to reach its goals.

Despite the highlights, it wasn’t smooth sailing throughout the start of the event at the Hungaroring. Speaking to the press, Alonso explained that he felt some vibrations in the car during the first session, which he finished in 13th. In the second session, with the issue mostly resolved, he ended up 19th.

“I’m feeling good. Overall, we saw what we expected in terms of numbers and correlation. That is very encouraging, both for the future—looking towards the 2027 car—and for this year. There is still a lot to do on our side, but I think this is just the first step that can lead us to improvement. I felt some vibrations in the car today, mainly during the first free practice session and down the main straight. The team mostly sorted out the issue for FP2,” he declared.

“We didn’t have any big surprises with the new upgrade package. No major loss in the corners compared to the midfield. That is the first of our ambitions: to be in the midfield fight. We have better cornering pace. We need to keep working to make progress in terms of chassis and engine. It’s only the first of many steps forward, but the atmosphere is good, and we delivered what we were looking for,” he concluded.

GRANDE PRÊMIO is covering all the track action from the Hungarian GP, the 11th round of the 2026 season.

F1 Hungarian GP: when to watch in US ET, London (UK), New Delhi (India), Shanghai (China) and Sydney (Australia)

US Eastern Time (ET)

London Time (BST)

New Delhi Time (IST)

Shanghai Time (CST)

Sydney Time (AEST)