Fernando Alonso will be ‘proud’ to see Aston Martin dominating F1 – even if he isn’t driving

Fernando Alonso says it will be a 'proud moment' for him if Aston Martin dominate F1 even if he isn't in the racing seat - as it means he 'helped build it'.

Fernando Alonso will be ‘proud’ to see Aston Martin dominating F1 – even if he isn’t driving

Fernando Alonso

Fernando Alonso is generally considered to be one of the greatest drivers to ever step foot in a Formula 1 car. The Spaniard won two championships in the mid-2000s with Renault but came close to a third championship many times over the years. In 2018, after another failed (in terms of winning the championship) stint at McLaren, he left the sport. But he was back with a vengeance with Alpine (rebranded from Renault) in 2021 and thinks he was even better in 2022.

But he was not feeling the love at the French outfit and was often let down by reliability – he retired a total of 6 times during the season. If not for these woes, it’s possible he may have challenged Lando Norris for the ‘best of the rest’ spot. As it was, Norris finished 41 points ahead. Alonso was also beaten out by his teammate, Esteban Ocon, who finished 11 points ahead. Now, he’s moved to Aston Martin, still in search of the third title – but also looking to build a lasting legacy.

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In terms of performance, it may seem like a downgrade as Aston Martin finished P7 while Alpine finished P4 last season. But the Spaniard seems content with his decision. Alonso is known to be demanding, and he’s felt the work culture of the team aligns with his own approach. As per Motorsport.com, he said: “Since the first day at Aston Martin, I felt exactly the same values from the people around me.”

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Aston Martin clearly aim to be a frontrunner, and they have the backing to get there. But this might take some time and may end up happening after Alonso’s career as a driver has ended. The Spaniard said: “We have the investment, we have the facilities, and we have the talent, so it’s just a matter of time. Unfortunately, I’m not 20, but I will do my best to help the team.”

Read More: Fernando Alonso won’t continue in F1 if he doesn’t believe in world title chances

Fernando Alonso earlier indicated his willingness to take non-racing role with Aston Martin

Fernando Alonso
Fernando Alonso

Aston Martin have expressed interest in keeping Fernando Alonso close to them even after the end of his racing career. So he could stay in a non-racing role, like a consultant or a brand ambassador. The Spaniard has reciprocated that interest. Speaking to AMuS magazine, he made it clear if it doesn’t work out as a driver, then he’s willing to stay with the Silverstone team in a non-racing role. In such a situation, he’ll be able to take credit for helping ‘build it’ – somewhat like Michael Schumacher and Mercedes.

It’ll be a proud moment for Alonso if Aston Martin one day dominate the sport. The two-time world champion said: “If I’m driving, it’s good. If I’m not driving, if one day we have an Aston Martin dominating races and championships and the two drivers are fighting for the championship like Red Bull, with Sebastian [Vettel] and [Mark] Webber, or [Lewis] Hamilton and [Valtteri] Bottas, to help these guys fight for a championship will be a proud moment for me, being part of these first steps in this brand.”

Time will tell if his move to Aston Martin will be successful – but the signs are good. He certainly seems happy till now. Whether or not his team can dominate F1 in the future, only time will tell. But if he stays with them in a non-racing role – they’ll probably have a better chance. Perhaps he can become the next Helmut Marko.

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