As the Formula 1 World Championship remains on hold, it seems that Fernando Alonso, the Spanish driver from the Aston Martin team, has begun to accept a reigning presence in the sport. Max Verstappen, who has consistently demonstrated his leadership and command over the discipline, is predicted to maintain his dominance in the 2024 season. Alonso stated, “I don’t possess the ability to foresee the future. However, I strongly believe that Max Verstappen will secure the title of world champion and Red Bull will continue to rule over this sport. At this point, our role is to observe their tactics and analyze their performance. In my opinion, out of the 19 drivers, there is a unanimous understanding that becoming a world champion is a distant dream.” Alonso, who was crowned the World Champion in 2005 and 2006, made this statement in an interview with the Spanish media outlet, Mundo Deportivo.
Alonso, aged 42, also expressed a rather pessimistic outlook about his team’s performance for the upcoming season. He anticipates that they might not be able to replicate the success they achieved last year. In 2023, Alonso, who was formerly teamed up with Esteban Ocon, managed to secure a spot on the podium eight times, thereby claiming the fourth place overall. His Aston Martin colleague, Lance Stroll, ended the season in the 10th position. The British team, on the other hand, clinched the fifth spot in the constructors’ standings. However, Alonso believes that repeating such an accomplishment will be a tough challenge this year: “In my opinion, we might not be as speedy as we were last year. We will certainly be under close scrutiny, but surprising the spectators will be a herculean task.” For Alonso and the other 19 drivers, the season is set to recommence on Saturday, March 2, with the Bahrain Grand Prix.