Fernando Alonso Overtakes Michael Schumacher With Spectacular New F1 Record

Longevity in Formula 1 is something that is hard to achieve. A driver’s contract is usually short term and so their future depends on the results. However, Fernando Alonso has defied the odds. The 40-year-old has raced for over two decades and is still going strong.

After the Azerbaijan GP’s qualifying session, the Spaniard has now raced longer than any other driver in the sport’s history. The record was 21 years, 3 months, which was held by the legendary Michael Schumacher.

But now Alonso has been in the F1 circus for 21 years, 3 months, 8 days, and therefore surpasses the German. Interestingly, no current driver other than Alonso is in the top 10 list for the most time spent in the sport. Nonetheless, Lewis Hamilton could well creep into this prestigious list soon.

Alonso took a two-year break in 2019 before returning to F1 to drive for Alpine. Although he last won a race back in 2013, his performances in recent years have been consistent.

WATCH THIS STORY: F1 Drivers Fighting on Track

The Alpine driver has also revealed that he could carry on driving F1 cars for the next 2-3 years. With his contract ending this year and the young Oscar Piastri hunting his place, Alonso has something to fight for.

Looking back at the glorious career of Fernando Alonso

Alonso is undoubtedly one of the finest Formula 1 drivers of all time. He has an entire catalog of crash and burn moments, but what sets him apart is his ability to get the best out of the car.

Few have matched the Spaniard’s consistency. Few have matched his natural talent and his achievements in a career of hard graft and determination. His 32 career victories, which place him 6th on the all-time winners list, speak for themselves.

The way he won two consecutive titles with Renault in 2005 and 2006 set the tone for his consistent performances. Alonso arguably deserved more titles, but such is the nature of the sport that the car also plays an important role in deciding the championship fortunes.

Of course, he came close to winning the ultimate prize multiple times. But, he has performed admirably despite not having the fastest car on the grid. However, Alonso’s repeated title near-misses were perhaps the biggest blows for him.

READ MORE: Fernando Alonso Needs To Take Time Off From 2022 F1 Season Over Health Concerns

No F1 fan will forget his heroics in the 2012 season where he fought his way to the championship despite arguably having the fourth fastest car on the grid. Nevertheless, his racing craft is appreciated by fans all over the world. So, we hope Alonso continues to defy the odds in motorsports.