Alonso Would Be in Title Fight at Mclaren or Red Bull, Says Briatore
Fernando Alonso is poised to make a significant impact in the 2024 Formula 1 season, with his long-time associate Flavio Briatore claiming the veteran driver would be in contention for the championship if he were to race for McLaren or Red Bull this year.
Alonso’s Potential with McLaren and Red Bull
Flavio Briatore, who played a pivotal role in Alonso’s early career, expressed confidence in his former protégé’s ability to win titles. “If Fernando was sitting in the McLaren or Red Bull this season, I promise you, he’d still be in the race,” said Briatore.
Aston Martin: A New Chapter in Alonso’s Career
Alonso, who will turn 45 next year, is currently set to race with Aston Martin until 2026. After a strong showing in recent seasons, the British team has added design heavyweight Adrian Newey to bolster their title aspirations under the revised regulations coming into effect next season.
The Road Ahead: Title Contention
Briatore remains optimistic about Alonso’s prospects, stating, “If Aston has a competitive car, we’ll see Fernando at the front.” His faith in Alonso reflects the driver’s tenacity and skill, with Briatore adding, “He’s always there when the car is competitive. You can see that at Aston Martin.”
Challenging Misconceptions
Briatore also took the opportunity to counter claims that Alonso is a difficult driver to manage. “That’s a lot of rubbish,” he asserted. “Fernando is uniquely capable of bringing a team together, as we’ve witnessed at Aston Martin—even with a less competitive car.”
What Lies Beyond 2026?
While Alonso’s future remains uncertain beyond 2026, he has indicated a readiness to retire if he enjoys a strong last season. Contrastingly, should Aston Martin fail to deliver a competitive car, he might consider extending his tenure in F1.
Looking to the Future
As speculation about Alonso’s next moves lingers, there are reports that Aston Martin’s team principle, Lawrence Stroll, harbours ambitions to bring in four-time world champion Max Verstappen in the future, showcasing the competitive landscape ahead for Alonso and his team.
In the ever-evolving world of Formula 1, Alonso’s experience and prowess suggest he remains a vital force, with Briatore’s words igniting hopes of a thrilling conclusion to his illustrious career.