The F1 World Champion proposes the addition of an extra day of testing and the allowance for teams to run both of their cars during those days.
Today marked the commencement of the initial three-day F1 testing session at Bahrain International Circuit, a week prior to the Grand Prix at the same location. This prompted 41-year-old Alonso to express his dissatisfaction with the limited preparation time available before the ‘show’ kicks off in just over a week.
Alonso stated to the press: “We have very restricted testing in Bahrain, and I can finally voice my thoughts on this after pondering over it all winter. It is unjust that we are given only one and a half days to prepare for a World Championship.
“There is no other sport in the world, considering the substantial financial investment, the extensive marketing, and the positive aspects we associate with Formula 1, that provides such limited testing. We claim to be getting closer to the fans, yet I fail to comprehend why we are not granted four days in Bahrain, possibly divided into two days for each driver,” he added.
He further stated, “If we were to extend the testing period to three days, which is an odd number, it would be impossible to divide the time fairly between the drivers. Additionally, I am puzzled as to why we do not conduct the testing with two cars, considering that we are already present in Bahrain and will be racing the following week,” expressed the experienced Spanish driver from Aston Martin F1.
Meanwhile, it comes as no surprise that Alonso has been linked to the vacant Mercedes F1 seat, which will be left by Lewis Hamilton at the end of this season as he moves to Ferrari. Consequently, the German team is in search of a teammate for George Russell.
Under contract with Aston Martin, Alonso commented on his plans beyond 2024: “If we fail to reach an agreement, I am aware that I am an attractive option for other teams. However, I will not remain in F1 solely for the sake of enjoyment. I am not that type of person or driver. Let’s see what possibilities arise.
“There are only three F1 world champions on the grid, and I am the sole available option for 2025. Therefore, I find myself in a favorable position,” hinted Alonso, indicating his openness to offers. Stay tuned!
According to the Source grandprix247.com