The Spanish driver Fernando Alonso, double Formula 1 world champion, assured today that the negotiation for his recently announced renewal by the Aston Martin team was “simpler than it seems.”
“We sat down after (the Grand Prix of) Japan and in one or two days we reached an agreement and announced it. It was very simple,” said the Asturian in a press conference prior to the Chinese Grand Prix, which will be held this weekend in Shanghai after a five-year absence.
Given the many “rumors” surrounding his future, Alonso assured that he and the team “kept their word” and said he was “extremely proud” to continue representing Aston Martin in the coming years. “The team is getting better and better (...) and will become a very strong team in the future,” he said.
“It is never easy when you have to make a decision,” explained the veteran driver, who “made sure” that he had the “strength and motivation” to continue competing and that, at the same time, his team “had the objectives and goals to continue improving.” the next years".
The Spanish driver, who confessed himself “happy” after his decision, will continue racing for the English team at least until 2026, the year in which new regulations regarding the design of cars will come into force that, according to Alonso, will represent “the possibility that everyone has an opportunity.”
Furthermore, in that year, Honda will become Aston Martin's new engine, which, in Alonso's opinion, will represent “an advantage”: “They are winning the championship now and they are showing that they have the discipline and work necessary to have success in Formula 1.”
Alonso also had words of praise for his current teammate, Lance Stroll, stating that the Canadian is “more sensitive” to issues related to the configuration of the vehicle, which is “crucial” when carrying out plans and analysis.
“Sometimes I am a little 'insensitive' and that is not good. (...) I drive the car despite the problems we have; That's sometimes good because I can take any car at any time, but I couldn't reach 100% of the car's potential without help from my partner,” he explained.
About this weekend's race, the 2005 and 2006 world champion (with Renault) said that the Shanghai circuit is “very challenging”, with some of the “most special” tight corners in the championship and many overtaking opportunities .
China will be the first round of the season with a 'sprint' format, something that does not worry Alonso too much: “I don't think we will change our way of approaching it with respect to any 'sprint' from last year. We can learn things for the rest of the weekend.”
