via Reuters
Formula One F1 – Emilia Romagna Grand Prix – Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari, Imola, Italy – Fernando Alonso is interviewed FIA/Handout via REUTERS
via Reuters
Formula One F1 – Emilia Romagna Grand Prix – Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari, Imola, Italy – Fernando Alonso is interviewed FIA/Handout via REUTERS
Fernando Alonso is not officially back yet, but he is already on everyone’s lips in the F1 paddock. The Spaniard left the sport in 2018 somewhat on a frustrating note. And this time, he is frustrating everyone else with his participation in the ‘Young Driver Test’ in Abu Dhabi.
A couple of weeks ago, he drove the 2018-spec Renault car in Abu Dhabi. And he has already completed the permitted 100km of track action in the 2020 car for filming in Barcelona.
So the decision to give him more track time is angering other teams. On the importance of this test, he said, “I know that there was a lot of media attention to this. I mean, every kilometre is important, and it will be welcome.
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Fernando Alonso is leaving no stone unturned ahead of his return to our team in 2021. Actually make that grains of sand. He’s leaving no grain of sand unturned. 100% commitment. 💪#RSspirit @alo_oficial pic.twitter.com/azeoKetWXH
— Renault F1 Team (@RenaultF1Team) November 23, 2020
“This one will be nice, because it’s the race engineers and mechanics, so I get to know them a little bit more because the 2018 testing was with a young team. So on that aspect, it’s gonna be nice to get some interaction with the people you will work with in the future.”
However, Alonso is downplaying the criticism surrounding the test, “But in terms of feeling or driving or something, it’s okay, but it’s not a day or night change for my preparation.”
Won’t make any difference to developing the 2021 car, according to Fernando Alonso
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Although the test will help the meticulous former McLaren driver in giving his engineers some valuable feedback. Tire manufacturer Pirelli is coming with new compounds for 2021 which change the dynamics of car development. Hence, he doesn’t feel that his team is gaining an advantage on that front –
via Reuters
Formula One F1 – Abu Dhabi Grand Prix – Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – Fernando Alonso poses for a picture with the Renault R25 before driving a lap Pool via REUTERS/Bryn Lennon
“You will give your feedback, but honestly, I don’t know what they can do into next year with this car, because they are losing a lot of downforce from the cars, and with the different tyres.
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“So, how much will affect anything you say going into next year, I don’t think it’s gonna be any.”
Even if he does not go on to add to his World Championship tally, fans can expect fireworks next season. He is charismatic and full of personality aside from being quick. His return will bolster the sport even further. And yes, he will continue to be an irritant for rival teams.
