How Alonso stays 'entertained' amid Aston Martin struggles
Fernando Alonso explains how he and Aston Martin teammate Lance Stroll find ways to "keep ourselves entertained" during uncompetitive races, using track time for data gathering and internal battles. While highlighting improved reliability as a positive, Alonso admits the car's pace is poor and confirms a decision on his F1 future will come later this summer.
Fernando Alonso has revealed his unique approach to staying motivated during a difficult season, joking that he and teammate Lance Stroll find ways to "keep ourselves entertained" when battling at the back of the grid. The two-time champion finished a lap down in 15th in Miami but highlighted internal battles and reliability as small positives in a tough weekend for Aston Martin.
Why it matters:
For a driver of Alonso's caliber and competitive fire, managing morale during a prolonged performance slump is a significant psychological challenge. His ability to shift focus to micro-battles and data gathering, rather than pure results, showcases the mindset required to navigate a difficult season and could be crucial for maintaining team cohesion and his own motivation as he contemplates his racing future.
The details:
- Finding Fun: Alonso explained that with a lack of outright competitiveness, he and Stroll pre-plan on-track collaborations to learn about energy management and other car behaviors, turning races into extended test sessions.
- On-Track Entertainment: In Miami, this philosophy extended to a "lively scrap" with Red Bull's Sergio Perez, which Alonso described as "a bit of entertainment," noting Aston Martin had slightly better pace in that duel.
- The Silver Lining: The Spaniard pointed to finishing without reliability issues for the second consecutive race as the main positive, a basic but important box for the struggling team.
- Reality of Pace: He was blunt about the car's performance, stating the race pace was "nothing special" and the goal was simply to "hang on and not lose ground with what we could do."
What's next:
The larger question looming over Alonso's season is his future in Formula 1.
- He confirmed that while he holds regular discussions with team owner Lawrence Stroll, talks have focused on the present, not 2026.
- A decision on whether he continues is expected around the summer, after careful reflection with his family and inner circle.
- Alonso remains relaxed, expressing confidence that if he continues, next year could be stronger as Aston Martin's project enters a new phase.
Don't miss the next lap
Get the deep dives and technical analysis from the world of F1 delivered to your inbox twice a week.
Zero spam. Only high-octane analysis. Unsubscribe anytime.
Join the inner circle
Get the deep dives and technical analysis from the world of F1 delivered to your inbox twice a week.
Zero spam. Only high-octane analysis. Unsubscribe anytime.
