Fernando Alonso has expressed interest in potentially racing for Aston Martin in the GT3 category or even in the Valkyrie during the prestigious Le Mans 24 Hours, but he emphasizes that his immediate focus remains on Formula 1. Despite recent challenges in the F1 season, including a disappointing P9 finish at Zandvoort, Alonso is keen on helping Aston Martin improve its performance.
Alonso's current situation in Formula 1 has been marked by a mix of optimism and frustration. While he acknowledges the team's progress with the chassis, he has voiced concerns about the engine's performance, stating that the improvements were not as significant as hoped. His remarks come after a series of developments in the car's setup, particularly following changes made since the Hungarian Grand Prix. Alonso believes that the team is moving in the right direction, even if the results have yet to reflect that fully.
"We cannot be happy just with P9 and no one is happy in the team," Alonso stated in a media session prior to the Italian Grand Prix. He highlighted that the team has made substantial adjustments to the car, which he feels are beginning to yield positive results in cornering performance. However, he also noted that the engine's drivability remains an issue, and he hopes that the upcoming Monza race will provide a clearer picture of the engine's capabilities.
Alonso has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with the current state of Formula 1, describing it as "not real Formula 1." He believes that the sport needs to evolve to regain its former glory and is hopeful that future regulatory changes will help achieve this. His focus, he insists, is not solely on the car's performance but also on the direction of the sport itself.
In addition to his F1 commitments, Alonso is aware of Aston Martin's broader racing ambitions, particularly in the GT3 category. His teammate Lance Stroll has already participated in GT3 events, and the team is gearing up for the Valkyrie's entry into the Hypercar class in the World Endurance Championship and Le Mans. Alonso, a two-time Le Mans winner, has not ruled out the possibility of joining these efforts after his F1 career, stating, "I think that door is not closed." However, he reiterated that his primary focus remains on Formula 1 for the time being.
Alonso's comments reflect a broader sentiment within the Aston Martin team, which is navigating its own challenges as it seeks to improve its competitiveness in Formula 1. Team principal Mike Krack is optimistic about Alonso's future with the team, noting that there is ample time to finalize decisions regarding contracts and future plans. "Well, the season starts in March, I think, so we have plenty of time, don’t we?" Krack remarked, indicating confidence in the team's ability to resolve any uncertainties.
As the season progresses, Alonso's dual focus on improving Aston Martin's performance in Formula 1 while keeping an eye on potential opportunities in endurance racing highlights the complexities of a modern racing career. For now, however, his commitment to F1 remains steadfast, as he aims to contribute to the team's development and push for better results on the track.
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