Formula 1 is widely known as “the pinnacle of motorsports.” The sport features the absolute best of pioneering automotive technology and racing talent. But does F1 also hold the pure essence of motorsports? Fernando Alonso has his say.
The Alpine driver, who represented his F1 team at the recently held 24 hours of Le Mans Virtual, described his thoughts on endurance racing.
Alonso said, “Endurance (racing) is something that is probably the true DNA of motorsports.”
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He said it, he said it, EL PLAN pic.twitter.com/flS8keqiVY
— Alpine F1 updates (@startonpole) January 15, 2022
Fernando Alonso – ‘El Capitan’ with ‘El Plan’
Fernando Alonso, who entered the virtual event as the team captain of Alpine’s No.36 entry, expressed his love for simulation racing and his excitement in this new role. He said, “I am thrilled to be the captain of the No 36 Alpine in the 24 Hours of Le Mans Virtual.
“In recent years, sim racing has become more professional and popular. I’m a big Esports fan in general,” Alonso added.
He further went on to describe his ‘plans’ for a potential future participation in Le Mans. “I think it’s in the plan, I don’t know when and with who, but yeah, I love that race.
“I love endurance racing in general,” the Spaniard said.
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As for which form or race in the world of endurance racing he prefers, Alonso said, “I feel Le Mans is obviously the best. But I did enjoy Spa 6 hours, Fuji, Bahrain, Daytona.”
Until now, in his illustrious racing career, Fernando Alonso has won the Formula 1 world championship twice, the FIA World Endurance Championship, the 24 Hours of Le Mans twice, and the 24 hours of Daytona once.
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So for the Spaniard to say that endurance racing is purer or that it has the true DNA of motorsports instead of Formula 1, makes sense, considering the vastness of his experience and achievements. Because while both forms of racing are a test of machinery, endurance is more of a test of the physical and mental toughness of a driver compared to F1.
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