Does Alonso prevent new talent joining F1? 'I had the luxury to decide'

Alonso picks up coveted spot

Before his return in 2020, GPblog already reported on the forgotten Renault Academy and what Alonso's arrival meant for the juniors at the French racing outfit. Is this academy still sustainable, as juniors like Guanyu Zhou and Christian Lundgaard were cast aside for the old hand? In 2021, Alpine F1 still opted for Alonso's return alongside Esteban Ocon.

In conversation with Racer.com the Spaniard says that he is aware of his unique place in the racing world and the luxury he has in making career plans. After all, with two world titles, you can claim a certain amount of freedom. Alonso: "I had the luxury of coming back to the sport. When I decided, I stopped and when I decided, I came back." This is a luxury according to the driver because the group of F1 drivers is always very small. "It's not easy to have such possibilities."

Alonso says he is grateful for this. Looking back on last season, the Spaniard could not have imagined a better season. He improved every time and finished with great results. In his own words, it has been the best preparation for 2022.

Alpine's ambition for 2022

Alonso was closely involved in Renault's heyday. In 2005 and 2006, he took both titles with the team. In 2021, the first year of the team's life as Alpine with new management and working system, the team finished fifth in the constructors' championship. Of course, it's not just luxury why Alonso could return. The Spaniard is a great support for the team. In 2022, the expectations of everyone within the camp are high. After all, that is the year when 'El Plan' will be rolled out.