F1: Fernando Alonso Keen To Join Red Bull Alongside Max Verstappen
Alpine driver Fernando Alonso has admitted that he’s interested in driving for a team at the front of the grid, despite it likely meaning that he’ll be competing against a “number one” driver.
Alonso’s contract is coming to an end at the end of this season, so it’s no surprise that he’s already looking for another team to transfer to. And while rumours are swirling around the internet about Sebastian Vettel retiring at the end of the year, Alonso has confirmed that he wants to stay to eventually win his third championship title.
Sky F1 asked about whether he believes this is a realistic expectation:
“I think so,” he told them. “That’s why I keep racing, you know?
“There is still always the hope that one year you will have the package and you will have the, you know, all things together to fight for the championship. I still feel competitive and I’m fast.”
The Alpine won’t bring him the kind of victory he’s after this year, with the A552 being a solid mid-field car. And while F1 has made changes to bring the pack closer together – which has definitely worked this year – Alonso notes that it’s only Ferrari and Red Bull that are looking seriously potent.
For that reason, it’s likely he’s after a seat at Red Bull alongside current champion and standings leader Max Verstappen. Fortunately for him, Verstappen’s teammate Sergio Perez’ contract is running out at the end of this year, too.
Alonso was asked about taking on Max Verstappen as a teammate:
“Yeah, sure.
“I think at the end of the day there are not many number one, two drivers in any team right now.
“All the teams need both drivers to work together and to improve the car, especially with the new regulations.
“You still learn every lap you do and you have to work towards a better car, a better package. So let’s see what are the possibilities into the next few years.”
“That’s news to me!” he told Sky F1.
“We are very happy with the drivers we’ve got here. Fernando’s a great driver, it’s fantastic he’s still in Formula 1 and given the plus 40 [age], he’s something to aspire to – but he doesn’t fit part of our plans.”
