David Coulthard reveals the reason behind Fernando Alonso enjoying a better comeback to F1 than Michael Schumacher

Fernando Alonso's comeback to F1 has been better than anyone expected


David Coulthard reveals the reason behind Fernando Alonso enjoying a better comeback to F1 than Michael Schumacher

Fernando Alonso and Michael Schumacher via News18

Veteran and renowned old-timer Fernando Alonso has an illustrious F1 career and has been around since the early 2000s. He is an esteemed two-time world champion, and after a long career, he called it quits back in 2018. However, the Spaniard reconsidered his decision in 2021 when he made a shocking comeback, racing from French outfit Alpine, formerly Renault, his championship-winning team.

His stint with Alpine was average at most, with the team repeatedly failing to hit their own goals. He finally departed them for Aston Martin in 2022, a decision few could comprehend. However, his gamble has paid off, and he is becoming familiar with the podium once again, having secured it four times in five races. His comeback to F1 is beginning to look successful, and he will hope to stay this consistent.

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When German legend Michael Schumacher reconsidered retirement in 2010, he could not revel in the success that Alonso now enjoys. Former Red Bull driver David Coulthard has revealed the reason behind this. On the Formula for Success podcast, he said, “When Alonso stepped away from Formula 1 the first time, he went straight into sports cars, IndyCar, he did the Dakar, he’s got a kart track and you see him out testing his karts at his facility in Spain.”

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Coulthard added, “I think, in comparison to Michael, who stopped and no longer was racing, then went and played in motorbikes and then had a crash and broke a vertebra, and then came back to Formula 1 three years after he’d originally stopped – he could still go through the motions”. Schumacher showed flashes of brilliance in his time back, but they were overshadowed by several mistakes.

Related: Charles Leclerc and Fernando Alonso set to square off against tennis legend Novak Djokovic in charity football match at Monaco

Fernando Alonso continues to strive for greater heights

Fernando Alonso via News18
Fernando Alonso via News18

Veteran Spaniard Fernando Alonso has established a strong association with the virtues of consistency and success, as he has consistently achieved 15 points at every race weekend this season, easily beating his teammate Lance Stroll in the process. The Spaniard has most recently stated his desire to take the top step of the podium at the Monaco GP.

He has pinpointed this as his first victory with Aston Martin. His predatory instinct is ready to capitalize on a potential race incident between the leading Red Bulls, and should he inherit the race lead, he could well triumph, given the difficulty in overtaking around the streets of Monte Carlo.

While Fernando Alonso’s pursuit of a race victory in 2023 may be difficult, his recent track record and unwavering determination have sparked a strong morale boost within the Aston Martin garage. Despite being 41 years old, Alonso’s hunger for success remains undiminished, fueled by his last Formula 1 win over a decade ago at his home race in Spain.

Drawing upon his past achievements and present form, Alonso maintains a strong confidence in Aston Martin, believing it offers him the optimal chance to reclaim the coveted top spot on the podium. The current season holds the potential for an ideal opportunity for him to add another remarkable victory to his already impressive record.

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