Fernando Alonso is known by many names in the world of F1. Nando, the Spanish Samurai, Teflonso, and even a villain according to Drive to Survive. Some nicknames indeed have a negative connotation (like Teflonso). Despite these, however, there is no doubt that he is a national treasure for Spain. He has served as a role model for young Spanish drivers across generations, and he continues to do the same. Even Carlos Sainz grew up getting inspired by watching Fernando Alonso.

As Red Bull signed Pepe Marti to their F2 program, the role that Fernando Alonso is playing is becoming even clearer. The Spanish icon is paving the way for young, talented pilots to make their career in racing by providing support both on and off the circuit.

Fernando Alonso’s Role in Pepe Marti’s Career

In a recent interview with El Confidencial, Pepe Marti reveals that his biggest inspiration, to no one’s surprise, is Fernando Alonso himself. The Campo driver talked about how he was born when the then-Renault driver won his first championship. “I was born when he won his first world championship, and then I saw him with the yellow and orange Renault, with the Ferrari… I grew up watching Fernando win pole positions in races and podiums and he was always my inspiration.”

However, Fernando’s role doesn’t stop here. Fernando Alonso’s management company, A14 Management, signed Marti two years ago. Ever since then, Marti was provided with top-notch coaches, and sometimes, even advice from the legend himself. When asked about the advice that he received, Marti reveals, “There are many specific ones for each circuit, some tricks that help a lot. For example, in Monaco it tells you that you have to locate references, fixed things.” 

However, he also reveals most of what Fernando instills in him is about his mentality. “But more than one thing in particular, it is the mentality. Genís Marcó, his coach in his day, instilled in him that mentality that he instills in me. If a car is to do P5, it must do P3. And if it is for P15, P12. Regardless of what happens, you must always get the most out of it. It is something that is easily said, but you have to have mental strength when everything goes against you, rowing and bringing home a good result is a way of working and a mentality. It is what has impacted me the most and I am trying to learn and copy.”

Also read: Max Verstappen Confirms Dream Pairing With Fernando Alonso in Hunt for Le Mans Glory

Now, as a Red Bull driver, Marti faces an enormous challenge ahead. He is now in the same academy as Sebastian Vettel, Daniel Ricciardo, Carlos Sainz, and Max Verstappen, among others.

Marti’s future as a Red Bull driver

He also revealed details about facing the prospect of a potentially career-ending moment before Dr Helmut Marko made the call to sign him as an F2 driver. “They told me when I was on the podium in the race on Sunday in Barcelona, ​​when I won it. It was known since Friday, but they didn’t tell me until that moment. I remember that it was, both for me and my family, who has worked so much and so hard for so long, it was a very special moment. You realize a dream. I knew that it was a year in which I could end or end my racing career in formulas. My goal was to be part of an academy at the end of the year. That’s why the memory I have of that moment is very special. It has completely changed everything for me. Without (Red Bull’s) support I would not be able to race next year in Formula 2.”

However, despite giants like Red Bull signing Pepe Marti, money remains a problem for the young Spanish prodigy. Spanish companies who are willing to sponsor up-and-coming drivers are few and far between. In fact, he has given up hope for finding sponsors for the ’24 season and is now putting in efforts for funding his next season in Formula 2.

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Say what you will about Fernando Alonso, like him or hate him. No one can deny the impact he’s having on the next generation of superstars.