Fernando Alonso lambasts ATA, extends apologies to the fans for the dulled excitement

Alternate Tyre Policy dictates to us three different tyre compounds for the three qualifying rounds.

Fernando Alonso lambasts ATA, extends apologies to the fans for the dulled excitement

Fernando Alonso (Credits: IMAGO)

Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso has not minced his words when expressing his dissatisfaction with the Alternative Tyre Allocation (ATA) policy, which was introduced at the Hungarian GP before the summer break. As the system’s mandatory implementation during the Italian GP qualifying session looms, Alonso voiced his concerns.

“It’s hard to turn around; we don’t have a set of tires for free practice,” lamented Alonso, acknowledging the limitation that the ATA system places on Friday’s testing. This allocation strategy, introduced initially during the Hungarian Grand Prix in 2023, is designed to reduce the number of tires used on a race weekend and enhance the sport’s sustainability.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WVpzQf3Z8mg

Under the ATA system, drivers must adhere to a strict tire selection protocol during qualifying: hard compound tires for Q1, medium compound tires for Q2, and soft compound tires for Q3. It also allocates two fewer tires compared to the regular session. This format aims to minimize the number of slick tires brought to each race by Pirelli, thus contributing to F1’s sustainability objectives. This hindered him and his teammate Lance Stroll‘s qualifying output at the Hungarian GP.

However, Alonso’s criticism arises from the impact this allocation policy has on Friday practice sessions, which are essential for gathering data and engaging the fans. “We apologize to all the fans for coming on Friday and not seeing any cars,” as quoted by Soy Motor.com. He expressed regret for the limited track action and entertainment value.

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Fernando Alonso acknowledges the need for a better qualifying spot at Monza

Fernando Alonso in his Aston Martin AMR23 at Monza
Fernando Alonso in his Aston Martin AMR23 at Monza (Credits: Formu1a.uno)

The Spanish driver’s concerns resonate with many in the F1 community, as they anticipate a dry qualifying for the upcoming Italian Grand Prix in Monza, where the ATA system will be in full effect. Monza’s unique circuit, with only six corners and high-speed straights, demands precision and optimal tire strategy, making the limited tire availability during practice and qualifying sessions even more challenging.

Alonso emphasized the competitive nature of Monza, where drivers are often separated by a mere two or three-tenths of a second. “So we have to make sure we are at the top of that group,” he noted. The Spaniard is a former winner at the ‘temple of speed’ when he drove for the Scuderia back in 2010 and claims, “It’s always nice to come back here.”

As Formula 1 continues experimenting with sustainability initiatives, such as the ATA system, the jury remains divided on its success. While it aims to reduce the environmental footprint of the sport by potentially saving thousands of tires over a season, it has also faced criticism from drivers like Alonso, who feel it detracts from the overall spectacle and preparation for race weekends. Fernando Alonso is locked in a duel with Lewis Hamilton for the third spot in the standings, and the Italian GP will play a big hand in determining their standings.

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