Fernando Alonso has doubled down on his comments regarding the low driving standard at the back of the Formula 1 grid after the United States Grand Prix.
Alonso issued a harsh critique of Alex Albon after the duo collided during the US GP. Frustrated after the race, the Spaniard claimed the quality of drivers in the back third of the grid is ‘very low’.
Yet, nearing a week on, Alonso’s feelings remain unchanged.
“I don’t know if it’s one-third, because then I saw some reports trying to pick up eight or seven drivers. I’m not specific about the number of them.” He told the media, including Motorsport Week,
“But I think we all know which ones we’re talking about and which ones they felt hit by that comment. So that tells you everything. I still feel the same. That was a mistake that was not needed.”
Alonso went on to explain to the media that despite his decades of experience in F1, he struggles to understand what some drivers expect with their moves.
“I still find it difficult to understand what the opportunity was that Alex saw in that moment. But it’s not only Austin. Unfortunately, that part of the race for the whole season, I see things from the car that I cannot tell you.” He said.
Fernando Alonso offers insight into racing at the back of the grid
Alonso further explained that this isn’t a new aspect of the sport. Instead, he explained how the issues begin.
“No, I think it’s the same. The same over the years. Obviously, at the back of the grid, the cars are difficult to drive.
“They’re more difficult to drive. They have less grip. Mistakes are coming more often because you don’t have the environment that is under control.
“The car doesn’t welcome you in a nice way. You make more mistakes. I don’t feel that all the incidents in lap one, all the touches, all the front wheels that fly around, all these kinds of things are not necessary.
“Especially if you’re fighting for nothing at the back of the grid.
“The cost cap also adds to this problem. If their teams are happy with the cost cap and breaking things every race, it’s OK for them.”
The FIA faces consistent criticism for not policing issues the same way, which leads drivers to take risks and make moves that have previously gone unpunished. However, Alonso didn’t blame the stewards; instead, he put the responsibility on drivers looking for better F1 seats.
“No, I think the stewards- it’s not their job unless there is something clearly unsafe. It’s not part of the stewards’ job. It’s just whatever ambition those drivers want for the future.”
“If they want to stay in Formula 1 for longer, if they want to have an opportunity into a bigger team, they are happy to crash.”
Alonso’s remarks offer a rare insight into how drivers at the back of the grid race; all eyes will be on the Spaniard to see if he encounters Albon again.
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