Fernando Alonso: The Master of Mind Games Strikes Ferrari Again
Fernando Alonso is never one to shy away from a bit of mischief, especially when it comes to his former employer, Ferrari. In a thrilling qualifying session at the Canadian Grand Prix, Alonso outpaced both Ferrari drivers to secure a spot in Q3, and he couldn't resist a playful jibe at the team once hailed as a serious title contender.
Ferrari opted for a risky strategy, predicting that rain would impact the latter part of Q2. They sent Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc out on fresh tyres early, but when the rain failed to materialize, it left the drivers scrambling on worn rubber to make it into the top-10 shootout. The gamble did not pay off, leaving Leclerc and Sainz to settle for 11th and 12th place, respectively.
Alonso, on the other hand, showcased his experience and skill, finishing a strong sixth in qualifying. He cheekily remarked to Marca, “We’re close to good people, aren’t we? Ahead of [Sergio] Perez and the two Ferraris who suddenly came to win the World Championship after Monte Carlo.”
Ferrari's Reversal of Fortune
The Canadian Grand Prix marked a turning point in Ferrari’s rollercoaster season. Following a victory for Leclerc in Monte Carlo, expectations were high. However, as their performance dipped in Montreal, Alonso seized the opportunity to highlight Aston Martin's progress. Whereas Ferrari's form spiraled, Alonso’s return to his early-season standards provided a fresh wave of optimism for his team.
“I think it’s been a good weekend so far for us,” Alonso said. “We had a decent Friday and today we were more competitive than in the last two events.”
Alonso's Comeback
Despite failing to perfect his Q3 lap, which he admitted could have put him on pole, Alonso remained upbeat. “Times are extremely close; within one-tenth, you can be out of Q1, and now two-tenths off pole position. So everything can happen on this tight grid and this type of circuit,” he commented.
Alonso’s recent struggles were well-documented, with a series of disappointing Grands Prix where upgrades did little to elevate Aston Martin. But Saturday’s performance suggested that tides might be turning. “We are starting to understand a lot about the car,” Alonso shared, hinting at a recovery plan in the making.
The Race Ahead
Looking forward to the Grand Prix, Alonso adopted a cautious optimism. “It’s a much better starting position than in the last two events, but the race is tomorrow. If it rains and you stop one lap too late or one lap too soon for the wrong tyre, your race is over. So we have to keep very, very focused tomorrow.”
Alonso’s words resonate not just with Aston Martin fans but also with anyone who appreciates the unpredictable nature of Formula 1. His blend of humor and wisdom keeps the spotlight on his enduring talent and tenacity.