Fernando Alonso, the two-time Formula One world champion, recently surprised many by leaving Alpine and joining Aston Martin for the 2023 season. Many questioned why the Spaniard would make such a move, but Alonso has now offered his reasoning behind it in an interview with Auto, Motor, und Sport.
The 40-year-old began by accepting that he does not have a shot at joining one of the teams already fighting for the title. “I love what I do. Of course, I would like to have a car that can fight for the title, but there is no space for me there,” he said.
Alonso then went on to reveal his primary reason for joining Aston Martin, saying, “Considering what was there in the market, Aston Martin is one of the teams who can achieve this in two, three years. It’s important at my age. I don’t have eternity ahead of me.”
Alonso believes that the team’s long-term vision aligns with his own goals and aspirations, even if it means not being in the thick of the title fight immediately. He signed off by being hopeful and optimistic about the move, saying, “If we end up being world champions, I will also be satisfied because I can say that I contributed to the construction of this title. I’m happy to embark on a new project and make it a success as soon as possible.”
Alonso’s move to Aston Martin was surprising to many, as the team finished seventh in the constructors’ championship in 2022, while his previous team Alpine finished fourth. However, Aston Martin has made significant investments in its infrastructure and personnel, and Alonso clearly sees potential in the team’s long-term prospects.
The Spaniard’s decision to join Aston Martin also opens up new opportunities for him to showcase his skills as a driver. Additionally, the team’s driver lineup, which includes Lance Stroll, has not been particularly competitive in recent seasons, so Alonso may have an opportunity to assert himself as the team’s lead driver.
