Bahrain GP: Fernando Alonso Claims Alpine F1 Have ‘Something in the Pocket’ After Average Run

Fernando Alonso returned to F1 with the newly rebranded Alpine team for the 2021 season. The Spaniard thinks the team has some tricks up its sleeve for the upcoming race.

The two-time world champion joined the French-based outfit when Daniel Ricciardo left for McLaren. Alonso will partner Esteban Ocon on the grid on his return to F1.

Alpine may not have got onto a great start during the first practice session, as Ocon finished 15th and his teammate Alonso came 16th. While in session to Ocon took 11th and Alonso came 15th.

Fernando Alonso says that Alpine has more to offer on race day

The 39-year-old stated that the team did show its true potential in Bahrain but has faith that when qualifying begins on Saturday, the car will have will reveal its true pace and Alonso is convinced it will do an outstanding job.

He said, “Well I think we have something in the pocket to be honest because the balance is different to the test. So we are working around the set-up to fine-tune the balance and I think we have good ideas for tomorrow so I’m confident we can do a good job.”

The Spaniard considers himself to be better than the rest of the grid

The current F1 grid has some of the most talented drivers, seven-time world champion, Lewis Hamilton, Vettel who has won four championships, but Alonso thinks he is better than them.

In an interview with BBC as quoted by PlanetF1, he said, “There are some young, talented guys who have been showing great performance in the junior categories and then we still have the champions.

“They were here two years ago with Lewis, Sebastian, Kimi, Verstappen, even if he is one of the younger generation. He has raced at the top level for four or five years. I think we have a very competitive grid and it will be a challenge to beat everyone on track.”

Alonso has been out of the sport since 2018 and being asked if he was as good as them, he replied,” No, I’m better.”

Can Alonso help Alpine get in front of the grid on his return to the sport? What are your expectations from the two-time world champion as he prepares himself for the upcoming championship? Let us know in the comments below.

Also Read: Fernando Alonso: No ‘Clear Target’ With Alpine F1 Comeback