After a performance at the United States Grand Prix which reminded everyone why Fernando Alonso is regarded, by many Formula 1 team bosses and senior engineers, as the best driver of the current era he told media that he remains committed to McLaren and Honda even if the big teams came calling.
When asked by a Turun Sanomat reporter if he would consider a move to Mercedes or Red Bull if they came calling, the McLaren replied, “I do not think they will because they have drivers for the next two years. I have a contract with McLaren-Honda in 2017 and the following year.”
“The most important factor for me is what kind of feelings I get from the cars with the new rules. At this time, the idea of having the best car or changing team does not motivate me.”
“I firmly believe that McLaren is the best team and the best working group I have ever worked with. We know that we are all on the same page and each gives the maximum in the same direction.”
“This gives me confidence that we have a complete team and the results will come, as long as all the technical problems have been eliminated. This should happen next season,” predicted the two times F1 world champion.
“I do not think my time in Formula 1 is finished. In fact, I think I am at a higher level as a driver and I am sure we will be competitive in 2017. The only question is whether I will like the new rules.”
“If I do not like next year’s cars I will then finish my career. If I am satisfied I will continue, if I do not I will stop. It’s that simple,” repeated the McLaren driver.
Ironically, in the aftermath of his gutsy performance at Circuit of the Amweicas, Italian media were clearly lamenting the absence of Alonso’s spirit in the Ferrari camp.
La Gazzetta dello Sport wrote: “We again saw the best from Fernando, who is limited by his McLaren. There are many at Maranello who still mourn his departure.”
While Corriere dello Sport were more scathing as they headlined another below par weekend for the Scuderia: “Red Disaster. Light at the end of the tunnel seems far away.”
Read the full story at GRAND PRIX 247
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