MOTORSPORT
‘I am a more complete driver now ’
Fernando A lonso, twice Formula 1 world champion, is arguably more fired up – and even more capable – than ever, as Kris Culmer finds out
Ona mundane Tuesday afternoon three years ago, one of the greatest drivers whom Formula 1 fans ha ever had the privilege of watching announced his retirement, aged 37. “After 17 wonderful years in this amazing sport, it’s time for me to make a change and move on,” he said, ref lecting on a remarkable 311 races at the pinnacle of international motorsport, 32 of which he had won, resulting in two title trophies.
Yet just a few weeks ago, that very same man had every eye fixed on him as he masterfully defended his place, for 10 laps, from a far superior car driven by one of the very few people to share his level of talent. In doing so, he undoubtedly enabled his youthful team-mate, Esteban Ocon, to claim a first career F1 victory and the first for their team since way back in early 2013.
It sounds astounding, maybe even a f light of fancy, but then he is Fernando Alonso. “Making a change” for this most dedicated of racing drivers was never going to mean putting his feet up.