Fernando Alonso Reveals Why He Chose 2021 Specifically to Return to F1

Fernando Alonso is all set to make his comeback into Formula 1 in the 2021 season with Renault. Alonso revealed that he wanted to drive in Formula 1 in 2021 as the regulation changes made the sport look more “Attractive“. Although the changes were later postponed to the 2022 season, he mentioned that he will use the upcoming season as preparation time.

Fernando Alonso was asked if the 2021 return was already on cards. “Yes, When I put on the table everything I could do next year, F1 seemed the most attractive,” said Alonso. “The idea of returning in 2021 was always there because the rules changed.”

“I did know that if I returned it would be in 2021, because in 2019 and 2020 with the same cars the idea would not attract me. With the change in rules, the idea might appeal to me.”

Alonso reveals how he evaluated his decision in returning to F1. “I did not know how I was going to feel in F1 after so many years. And with the pandemic and the delay in regulation to 2022, I was wondering what to do,” says the former Mclaren driver. “Whether to continue another year apart or if it would be a long time away.”

“In the end, I decided that the best thing was to be inside to prepare as best as possible for 2022 and not spend so much time out.”

The Spaniard decided against racing in Formula 1 at the end of the 2018 season. His time with the Mclaren was miserable as the car was in its worst shape. Despite vacating a race seat, he remained in the team as a Brand Ambassador until 2019.

Now, Fernando Alonso, on his comeback, will line up alongside the Frenchman, Esteban Ocon  for the newly renamed Alpine Racing. The two-time world champion secured both his championship titles with the same constructor in 2005 and 2006.

Fernando Alonso Feels F1 is Giving More Security Amidst the Pandemic

Fernando Alonso explained how F1 felt much safer. He also revealed how the pandemic affected other smaller racing leagues.

Alonso said, “And also, to be totally honest, the other categories did not give me the security that the F1 could have with the pandemic. The WEC is a bit weakened by the sponsors, races canceled… And the other categories will suffer more, as always, the categories with fewer resources, the weakest, suffer more.”

(All quotes are translated from Spanish using Google Translate)