Azerbaijan GP: Fernando Alonso Confident of Alpine’s Qualifying Chances

With three points-less finishes at three of the five races so far, it has been a tough start of the season for the two-time world champion Fernando Alonso.With the beginning of the season, according to him, at the French Grand Prix fast approaching, the Spaniard looks like he’s inching closer to finding his feet,

At the Azerbaijan Grand Prix weekend, he finished P6 and P9 in FP1 and FP2, respectively. He looked fast and his Alpine looked at home in the twisty and rapid streets of Baku.

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Fernando Alonso believes the team hit their targets

After finishing the Friday practice, Alonso said, “I think we had a clean Friday. FP1, FP2 as many laps as possible as you said. So I think we hit the target with the number of laps and completed the program.

“I think there is some potential in the car to unlock tonight and go faster tomorrow but so far happy with how the weekend has started.” said Alonso.

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When asked about the chances of finishing in Q3, he said, ” Well, the aim is always to be in Q3 and try to be starting in the top 10. I think there is a chance to do that after today’s potential. So let’s try to make a good Saturday.”

Can Alonso and Alpine get into Q3?

Alpine really comes alive in the slower speed corners and struggles on the medium to high-speed corners. And considering that this year’s midfield is closer than ever before, the margin for error between the midfield pack is very slim. Since Alpine is on the lower side of the midfield, they really need to get to the Q3.

The Friday practice sessions have suggested that they are the fourth quickest team behind Mercedes, Red Bull, and Ferrari. The performances put in by Alonso and his teammate, Esteban Ocon, also give the French outfit hope that their long-run pace is looking decent which helps them on race day on Sunday.

This presents a massive opportunity for Alpine and Alonso to get their season back in order. Do you think Ocon or Alonso will reach Q3? Comment below to let us know.