Fernando Alonso Reflects on Challenges of F1 Return as Sebastian Vettel Contemplates Comeback

Fernando Alonso recently shared his insights on the challenges of returning to Formula 1, a situation currently contemplated by four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel. Alonso’s advice, based on his own experience, serves as a cautionary tale for Vettel as he considers his future in the sport.

Key Takeaways:

• Vettel’s Potential Return: Sebastian Vettel, the celebrated four-time World Champion, is considering a return to Formula 1, sparking discussions across the racing community. Fernando Alonso, a fellow champion, offers a seasoned perspective on such comebacks.
• Alonso’s F1 Re-entry Experience: Alonso, having taken a break from F1 in 2018 to pursue other racing ambitions including the elusive ‘Triple Crown’, made his comeback in 2021. Drawing from this experience, he emphasizes the considerable challenges associated with returning to F1, insisting that these should not be underestimated.
• Alonso’s Racing Milestones: As Alonso approaches the Singapore Grand Prix, he is on the brink of setting a new record in Formula 1. Completing just 16 more laps will make him the first racer to achieve 100,000 kilometres under race conditions, a testament to his enduring presence and impact in the sport.

As the Formula 1 world is abuzz with Sebastian Vettel’s musings about a potential return, Fernando Alonso’s comments offer a grounded perspective. Alonso, who returned to F1 in 2021 after a break, knows firsthand the complexities and challenges that come with such a decision.

Discussing the enormity of this decision, Alonso remarked, “It’s up to him, obviously, if he thinks about it. As I said, I think when Daniel came back, it is a challenge. [The challenge of] going back to F1 cannot be underestimated. And yeah, it could be a challenge for sure.” His words underline the demanding nature of the sport and the difficulty of making a comeback.

While Alonso advises Vettel, he is also close to creating his own history. The Aston Martin driver is just 16 laps away from becoming the first to cover 100,000 kilometres in race conditions in Formula 1. Reflecting on this, Alonso noted, “I think that’s race kilometres. They never count every practice, qualifying or testing. So I remember the first year testing in 2002 when I was test driver, I did 40,000 km in that season alone.” His continued passion for racing is evident as he eagerly anticipates the upcoming Grand Prix.

Further discussing his extensive experience, Alonso humorously speculated about the total distance he may have covered in his career, including all forms of testing and off-road racing. He said, “I don’t know. In racing cars for sure. Because I’ve been testing and doing a lot of laps every week, off-road as well. Well, there are 8,000 in Dakar plus 10,000 of testing, so there is a lot of kilometres.”

As Vettel ponders his future in Formula 1, Alonso’s insights and imminent milestone serve as a poignant reminder of the sport’s relentless demands and the enduring spirit required to succeed at the highest level.