Fernando Alonso Open to Leaving Alpine for Rival F1 Teams

The Formula 1 action is back, and the sport has returned to Melbourne, Australia. From 1996 to 2019, Australia has been the first race on the calendar, except for a couple of seasons. The two-year break because of the Covid-19 pandemic has seen a huge turnout on Friday for the first two practice sessions. Meanwhile, on the track, Alpine’s Fernando Alonso has started the week impressively as he finished P4 in FP2.

Alonso made his debut at this very venue back in 2001 with Minardi. The Spaniard is currently 40 and is still going strong after a series of impressive drives last year. He has two World Championships to his name and has endured the highest of highs in the sport. However, the 40-year-old intends to stay in Formula 1 for another two or three years.

Fernando Alonso is still feeling competitive

Many didn’t expect much when Fernando Alonso returned to Formula 1 in 2021. However, he endured a solid season last year and started the 2022 season on a strong note. Meanwhile, answers regarding Alonso’s future remain uncertain as his contract is ending this year. Amide all this, the Spaniard revealed his desire to remain in Formula 1.

He said, “It’s about performance, not age. As I said at the beginning of the year, I still feel competitive, fast and feel like I’m enjoying the time I spend in Formula 1. I guess I’m going to be racing for another couple of years.”

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“Two or three more years. If it’s with Alpine, fine; if it’s with another team, fine too. I will find out and probably start talks in the summer,” explained the Alpine driver.

Alpine’s pace has been impressive so far and with proposed upgrades, they will hope the car will improve further. Alonso will hope to secure a seat next year and it will depend on his performance. However, a talented Oscar Piastri is breathing down the neck of the two-time World Champion.

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Alonso rates the young driver very highly. Nevertheless, he intends to remain in Formula 1 for the upcoming years. He added, “Obviously if I was 25, this wouldn’t be talked about. It’s an age issue. People try to find a way for young talent, but I think it’s about performance. Last year, I think I did well. I ended up slightly down in front of Esteban, we will see the battle this year!”

It is evident that the 40-year-old is still enjoying his time in Formula 1. Will Alonso have a seat next year? Leave your thoughts in the comments.