It was the bombshell news of the summer in Formula 1: Aston Martin announced the signing of Fernando Alonso to the surprise of almost everyone, even for Alpine who had talked about its possible renewal very recently.
The 41-year-old Spanish pilot would face a new challenge, perhaps his last in the competition. And he has already gotten into the car twice, although not yet in 2023: in Abu Dhabi and now in Jerez this week.
Alonso and Lawrence Stroll, owner of Aston Martin, have a close relationship that goes back a long way. In fact, in the interview with the team, he revealed that he went to his home in Canada on several occasions.
“I have known Lance (Stroll, his partner) for eleven years. I met him in 2012 when I was at Ferrari and he in the team’s academy”, says Alonso about his relationship with his teammate.
About his father, Lawrence, there is much more: “I have known him for many years. He is a great friend of mine. I have been to your house in Canada several times doing sports and enjoying time together”.
“Lance has the speed”
Regarding the capabilities of his new partner, Alonso is convinced of his potential: “He has speed and he has the talent…”.
“He has shown it many times, especially in wet conditions. I remember his pole position in Turkey and other performances in the wet. To do so in those conditions, you have to have a special ‘feeling’ with the car,” he says.
