Debate | Aston Martin have lived beyond their means for a long time in 2023

The biggest setback of qualifying for the US Grand Prix was the Aston Martin team. Lance Stroll failed to get through Q1 more often than not this season. But in a season where Fernando Alonso was a regular guest on the podium in the first place, the Spaniard was stuck in Austin in seventeen. Of course, anything can still happen on Sunday, yet Aston Martin's performance was yet another serious sign that things are going downhill for the green team. Or should we simply conclude that Aston Martin was living beyond its means at the start of the season?

Just a small step back in time. By recruiting Alonso for the discontinued Sebastian Vettel, Aston Martin once again underlined its ambitions. With one of the best drivers on the grid, the English want to slowly work towards that ultimate dream: winning races and then becoming champion.

No effort (read: money) has been spared to build a state-of-the-art factory in Silverstone, England. Parallel to the move to this new home, Alonso's performances at the start of the season ran in parallel. On no fewer than seven occasions this season, the veteran driver found himself on the podium. More than expected beforehand, the team announced on several occasions. Still: Aston Martin was right there.

Meanwhile, the team has dropped to fourth in the constructors' championship. Holding that spot looks set to be a tough job with its current form. McLaren - although in good form - is seriously breathing down Aston Martin's neck. Given the form of both teams, it looks like Aston Martin will eventually finish fifth. After such a top start to the year, that seems like a setback. Or not, and is any disappointment unjustified? Perhaps there is a realisation at Aston Martin that they lived beyond their means earlier this season?

What do GPblog readers think? Has Aston Martin lived above its means for long this season and fifth place is where the team belongs? Or should Fernando Alonso and co really be balking at the current situation? Vote and let us know in the comments!