Fernando Alonso has already spoken in the run-up to the Spanish Grand Prix. And the headline is that his first race in Madrid could also be his last. Alonso has stated in the press conference attended by Motorpasion that he is considering an alternative to Formula 1: returning to the WEC to race the 24 Hours of Le Mans, also with Aston Martin.
What Alonso has been able to confirm is that news about his future will not come soon, dispelling rumors that we would meet him in Madrid. Additionally, Alonso took the opportunity to throw a dig at Ferrari, reminding that Maranello’s team has been the only one able to test Madring ahead of the rest.
Alonso rules out deciding his future soon
The renewal or retirement of Fernando Alonso from Formula 1 remains one of the season’s big mysteries, and it doesn’t look like it will be resolved in Madrid. Despite racing at home, there won’t be an official announcement this weekend. In fact, Alonso says that “you won’t hear news about my future soon,” and when asked why, he replies that “it’s funny.”
Recall that Alonso’s contract ends this season, and he has to decide whether to stay in Formula 1 or not. The Asturian has again stressed that the key will be the adjustments to the technical regulations planned for next season, and he hopes they will make driving the cars more enjoyable.
Although the most revealing moment of the press conference came when Alonso was asked whether he envisions the possibility of returning to the WEC with Aston Martin. The answer was a resounding: “Yes”. Alonso has already won the 24 Hours of Le Mans twice with Toyota, and now he could try it again aboard the Valkyrie.
Regarding what he expects from Madrid, Alonso was terse, dropping a barb: “That is a question better left to Ferrari”. It is worth recalling that the Italian team is the only one that has been able to test Madring ahead of the rest, since they conducted a filming day. Additionally, Alonso also took time to pay homage to Barcelona.
Alonso carried out a test with his classic cars at Montmeló on the Wednesday before arriving in Madrid. When asked at the press conference how that test went, the Asturian stated that “it was the best thing I have done all year”, and he adds that “I drove cars without batteries, only with gasoline and a lot of noise, incredible”.
At 45 years old, it is fairly clear what Fernando Alonso asks of motorsport at this stage. The question is whether Formula 1 can provide it.
Images | Aston Martin
