40 Year Old Fernando Alonso Refuses to Take the Blame in F1 Hot Topic, Points at Other Drivers Instead

Fernando Alonso has been in Formula 1 for around two decades. The amount of experience he has gathered over the years is unmatched. The Spaniard also became the longest-serving driver in the history of Formula 1, a record previously held by Michael Schumacher.

But many have questioned his decision to return to the sport back in 2021. He is currently 40 and some believe that he is blocking the line for the next generation of drivers. Oscar Piastri, the Alpine reserve driver, is seen as a huge talent in the Formula 1 paddock, but he is yet to drive in the pinnacle of motorsport.

However, Alonso is still showing his ability on the track. He also believes that age is not a barrier and transferred the blame on other drivers. Asked about whether he is blocking young talents, he said, “I see it differently. Motorsport is all about the stopwatch.”

“The key question is: are you still fast enough and do you make it happen? If you are slow and perform moderately, then you block the way for up-and-coming talents. Then you have to make room. I’m still fast. It’s other drivers who lock the door for fresh blood.” (Translated using Google)

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With that being said, Alonso’s contract is running out at the end of the year. Piastri is certainly right on his heels, as Alpine is yet to make a decision regarding the two-time world champion’s future.

Fernando Alonso is promoting up-and-coming drivers’ development

Alonso is the most experienced F1 racer on the grid. He has inspired the new generation of drivers as he is arguably one of the greatest ever to grace the sport. Moreover, he is still going strong.

While some believe that he is blocking out the path for youngsters in F1, on the contrary, he has set up a karting course for junior drivers to develop their skills. He is hoping to give back to the sport that has given him everything.

Speaking of working with young talents, he stated, “I spend a lot of time with my management helping talents on their way. They can benefit from my experience and connections and I like that. My whole life revolves around motorsport. It may be the only thing I’m good at. I wouldn’t come into my own elsewhere.” 

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His F1 future may be in doubt, but he continues to develop the up-and-coming drivers. He started his F1 career as a 19-year-old and always had a solid foundation to rely upon from his junior karting days. Similarly, Alonso has provided the base and will hope to see talents emerging from his campus.