Fernando Alonso is one of the best drivers in Formula 1 history. Although he has only won two Formula 1 titles so far, he has shown some memorable performances on a racetrack. He won his two titles in this sport with the French team Renault. But in a surprising revelation, he stated that he didn’t support the team growing up.
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In a recent interview, Alonso stated that he supported the Mclaren team as a child.
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“I initially supported McLaren,” said the Alpine driver. Alonso grew up as the adored McLaren driver Ayrton Senna, so his choice is entirely justified. During his second stint with the team in 2015, he was even allowed to drive the Brazilian Mclaren with his team-mate at the time, Jenson Button.
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It was a very emotional day: Fernando Alonso
As reported by Autosport, the former McLaren driver had the chance to drive Senna’s 1988 car. He mentioned the entire experience as wonderful. He also stated that he was very emotional after driving the car.
“It was a very emotional day. The car is legendary; the most dominant car in Formula 1, ”said Alonso.
BUDAPEST, HUNGARY – Fernando Alonso from Spain and McLaren F1 walk in the paddock after training for the Hungarian Formula 1 Grand Prix at the Hungaroring in Budapest, Hungary. (Photo by Dan Istitene / Getty Images)
“I’ve had the privilege of doing eight or nine laps, I think, and hearing Jenson enjoy the differences in the cars. Even if you don’t go to the limit, I won’t forget it. It was a wonderful experience, ”said Fernando.
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Though Alonso mentioned that the technology in the cars has evolved since then. He pointed out the differences between Senna’s McLaren and modern cars.
“Of course, because of the technology, we now have more complicated things compared to the old car. You have everything manual – there is no power steering and there are three pedals and a manual gearshift.
“I think it’s like an 80s computer [compared to] a computer from now on. A lot has changed. But the good thing about motorsport is that you compete against the others, so in the 80s and 90s and [even in] In 2050 you will try to be better than the rest with whatever technology you have in your hands, ”said the former McLaren driver.
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It’s such a shame that Alonso didn’t have the best times with his favorite team he supported. It would have been nice to see Alonso mimicking his hero Senna’s achievements in McLaren.
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