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Alonso shares 'wake-up call' for competitors and fans
Two-time world champion Fernando Alonso has amassed a wealth of success over his Formula 1 career which has lasted more than 20 years. With nearly 400 races worth of experience under his belt, Alonso reflects on how fans have changed over the years and what his career means to the sport.
In a recent interview with Aston Martin, Alonso was asked about the legacy he wishes to leave upon the sport and its viewers. With his career spanning multiple generations of drivers and fans, he shared his motivations that helped him continue racing and how he still gains enjoyment from engaging the new generations of F1 fans.
Alonso has enjoyed showing his talents for newer fans who may have had some misconceptions about him and his earlier career. "I think the younger generation saw me as kind of old because I'm sure their parents would talk about my World Championships, my wins with Renault, McLaren and Ferrari, things like that... Last year was a wake-up call for that younger generation. Suddenly it was like, 'Wow, you know, this Fernando Alonso guy is still here, still competitive, and I want to support him. What my parents said about him has to be true.’"
Alonso on his career: 'it could mean a lot for the sport itself'
The Spanish driver has not only enjoyed showing his talents to new fans, but his motivation to win another race is also to motivate viewers. "Winning another F1 race after all these years would be a real statement: never give up; always fight for your dreams; follow your passion; do what you want to do."
Alonso also aims to inspire his fellow drivers as a symbol of resilience within the sport. "It would mean a lot for me, but it could mean a lot for the sport itself. And it could mean a lot for many young drivers: if they're going through a period without success, it doesn't matter, what matters is you're doing what you love to do. If you keep trying to perform at your very best, keep improving, keep putting in the hard work, and if you can be in the right place at the right time, success can arrive."
As the 2024 season enters its final races, Alonso currently sits ninth in the Driver Standings with 62 points. Alonso is still eyeing another race win as Adrian Newey will join the Aston Martin team next season. Alonso signed a new deal earlier this year which will see him stay at the team in 2025 and 2026 at least.
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12 October 2024
