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Mexico FP1 Shuffle: Lindblad Replaces Verstappen, Alpine Runs Aron

FIA rookie-practice rules are shaping Friday’s lineups as Alpine closes its Austin review of Franco Colapinto and signals a November decision on his 2026 role.

Overview

  • Red Bull confirmed F2 prospect Arvid Lindblad will drive Max Verstappen’s RB21 in FP1 at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, according to Helmut Marko.
  • Verstappen will skip only the first practice and return for FP2, FP3, qualifying and the race.
  • Alpine said Paul Aron will take Pierre Gasly’s seat for FP1 as part of its young‑driver allocation.
  • Alpine concluded its internal review of Colapinto’s Austin overtake with the driver acknowledging team orders must be followed, and a call on his 2026 status is expected in November.
  • Teams are using Mexico to meet the FIA debutant requirement, with additional reserves set to run FP1 across the grid, and Colapinto attended Renault and sponsor events without a contract announcement.