Aston Martin Aramco Names Cian Shields for Abu Dhabi FP1 Run in Fernando Alonso’s AMR25

Silverstone, 2 December 2025: The Aston Martin Aramco Formula One™ Team has confirmed that rising British talent Cian Shields will make his Formula One debut this week, taking the wheel of Fernando Alonso’s AMR25during the FP1 session at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The 20-year-old FIA Formula 2 driver will join fellow Aston Martin Aramco Young Driver Jak Crawford, who was earlier announced to drive Lance Stroll’s AMR25 in the same session.

Shields, currently contesting his first full season in the FIA Formula 2 Championship, will turn his long-term development work with the team into a landmark moment as he steps into a Grand Prix weekend for the first time on Friday, 5 December at Yas Marina Circuit.

Over 500km of F1 Testing Ahead of Debut

Throughout 2025, the young Briton has logged more than 500km in F1 Testing of Previous Cars (TPC) and carried out significant simulator development work at the AMR Technology Campus in Silverstone. His strong technical feedback and consistent growth have earned him the FP1 opportunity.

Cian Shields: “A huge moment for me”

Expressing his excitement, Shields said:

“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to drive in FP1 with Aston Martin Aramco. I’ve learned so much working with the team this year, both in the simulator and through my TPC testing, and to now be trusted with the AMR25 on a Grand Prix weekend is a huge moment for me. I’m looking forward to contributing to the programme on Friday and making the most of the experience.”

Team Praises His Progress

Gerry Hughes, Chief Engineer F1 Evolution at Aston Martin Aramco, commended Shields’ rapid development:

“Cian has worked closely with our team throughout the year, building mileage in AMR TPC Formula One machinery and deepening his understanding of the AMR25 through a structured simulator programme. His feedback and professionalism have been consistently strong, and he has continued to develop with every opportunity. This upcoming FP1 session is a fantastic way to round out the year, putting the knowledge and experience he has gained to good use for the team at the final race of the season.”

A Key Step in Aston Martin Aramco’s Driver Development Pathway

Shields’ appearance in Abu Dhabi underscores Aston Martin Aramco’s continued investment in nurturing young talent. With two young drivers participating in FP1, the team signals a strong commitment to long-term driver development and future competitiveness.