Fernando Alonso reiterates concerns about subpar F1 driving standards: "We all know who we're referring to."
Following the collision between Fernando Alonso and Alexander Albon on the first lap of the US Grand Prix in Austin – which, as noted by Aston Martin's chief trackside officer Mike Krack, significantly reduced his downforce – the two-time world champion expressed strong disapproval of the current driving standards in Formula 1.
"When you start from the back, there’s always a risk involved. I believe the skill level of drivers in the lower third of the grid is quite poor, as demonstrated today with Alex. Therefore, we need to enhance the car and begin a bit further up," Alonso remarked in the media area after Sunday’s race at the Circuit of the Americas.
While this comment was understandably made in the heat of the moment – particularly since Alonso felt Aston Martin had the pace to contend for points – he reaffirmed his stance during the media day in Mexico City, making it clear he still stands by his remarks.
"I’m not certain it's exactly one third of the grid, as I noticed some reports trying to specify eight or seven drivers. I’m not pinpointing a specific number, but we all know who we’re referring to and who might have taken offense at that statement," he elaborated.
"That says it all, so I maintain my view. That was an unnecessary mistake, and I still struggle to comprehend what opportunity Alex perceived at that moment.
"But it’s not only about Austin. Regrettably, I’ve found myself in that situation throughout the entire season, so I observe things from the car that I can’t disclose to you."
When questioned by Motorsport.com about whether he had noticed a decline in driving standards in F1, Alonso responded: "No, I think it has remained consistent over the years.
Alexander Albon, Williams, Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin Racing
"Clearly, when you’re at the back of the grid, the cars are more challenging to handle. They provide less grip, and errors occur more frequently because you lack a controlled environment. The car doesn’t behave in a friendly manner, leading to more mistakes.
"However, I believe all the incidents on lap one, all the collisions, all the front wings that get damaged, and similar occurrences are unnecessary. Especially when competing for nothing at the back of the grid.
"The cost cap also contributes to this issue, but if their teams are content with the cost cap while damaging parts every race, that’s their choice."
Those concluding remarks are particularly noteworthy considering that Williams team principal James Vowles has consistently advocated for a reevaluation of the cost cap. With this statement, however, Alonso subtly indicates that minimizing damage could also benefit his team, even without such a reevaluation.
Alonso believes that the challenge of driving standards is less about the stewards, who may not always be consistent, and more about the teams and drivers themselves.
"No, I think it’s not the stewards' responsibility unless there’s something clearly unsafe. It’s not part of the stewards' duties. It really depends on the ambitions those drivers possess, and what they seek for their futures.
"If they aim to remain in Formula 1 for an extended period, if they desire a chance to join a larger team, or if they’re okay with crashing."
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