To the Times: «It is, in a positive sense, easier for drivers of this generation to drive Formula 1 cars»
Montreal (Canada) 06/18/2023 – F1 race / photo Imago/Image Sport in the photo: Fernando Alonso ONLY ITALY
Fernando Alonso, 42 years old and with 2 world titles in his pocket, tells “Times” how the figure of the driver in Formula 1 has evolved, from the heroism of his early career, to the introduction of technological systems that facilitate driving and preparation for races.
«I remember when I arrived in Formula 1 20 years ago, the engineer was unable to explain anything about the car to me. It was the drivers who had to know how to drive the car».
Now everything is different: «We didn’t have simulators, so every track I went to I had to learn by walking on it the day before. Now the drivers are very well prepared, they have 200-300 laps available on the circuit they will race on, so they know every bump, every curve, every curb perfectly. Teams are now much more sophisticated and can tell the driver how to brake in that corner, how to warm up the tires, how to prepare for qualifying, how to drive in the race».
A certainly positive change, but for the Spanish driver it takes away that hint of epicness typical of Formula 1:
«It is, in a positive sense, easier for drivers of this generation to drive Formula 1 cars. Whereas before it was more heroic. It’s a strange feeling, not sad, but I remember when I debuted and participated in an event, I saw some respect towards me and I was one of those heroes who drove these super fast cars. Now when there is a young rider who debuts at 16 or 17, it seems to be easier for everyone. We’ve lost some of that heroic spirit we had before».
Alonso: «Now that I’m older I feel the responsibility of leading the team»
Alonso talks about the uncertainty and fear of joining F1: «When you come to Formula 1, you feel this competitiveness in the team, in the sport, which is brutal, but you’re a little bit shy because you’re in your twenties and your teammates are normally older, they have more experience».
Now that he is a veteran, he feels he has a different role within the team: «Now I feel the opposite, I’m the oldest, I’m the one with the most experience and I feel the responsibility on my shoulders to lead the team and try to help not only the engineers, but also Lance (ed. Stroll, his teammate in Aston Martin ). I will be part of the team for many years, even when I am not driving, and Lance will lead this team in the future. I will always support him».
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