Fernando Alonso Reflects on Experience Ahead of Qatar GP Sprint
Fernando Alonso, the 44-year-old Aston Martin driver, has shared his thoughts ahead of the Qatar Grand Prix sprint race, reflecting on the unique position his extensive experience places him in. With 24 years in Formula One, Alonso acknowledges both the advantages and the challenges that come with such a long career.
Alonso will start fourth in today’s sprint, and he emphasized how much his knowledge of tracks, tyres, and car setups helps him navigate the demanding F1 weekends. He explained that knowing the circuits intimately and understanding how to manage the car from Friday onwards provides him with an edge. However, he also admitted that jet lag and the physical toll of travel have become more noticeable as he’s gotten older. “It has some disadvantages,” Alonso said candidly. “I get a bit more tired with the jet lag and the travelling, but I know the tracks, I know the tyres, I know the car, I know how to track everything on Friday.”
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The sprint race, although offering only eight points to the winner, is being watched closely as it can provide clues about the grid for Sunday’s main Grand Prix. McLaren’s Oscar Piastri has taken an early lead, showing strong pace, while Max Verstappen is attempting to fight his way back after losing ground earlier in the season. Alonso, meanwhile, remains calm and methodical, aiming to leverage his experience rather than overexert himself in the sprint.
Alonso also highlighted the strategic aspect of the weekend. Minor tweaks to the car are possible after Friday’s sessions, and he explained that knowing how to optimise these changes is part of the benefit of his long career. “Then on Saturday, it’s true that we can open the parc fermé. We do change the car a little bit, minor tweaks, and everyone seems to get on top of the circuit,” he said. His approach is measured: step by step, focusing on today’s sprint before moving on to qualifying for Sunday’s Grand Prix.
This blend of experience and strategic patience is what has allowed Alonso to remain competitive in Formula One, despite the physical demands of racing at 44. Fans watching the Qatar GP sprint will be keen to see if his insight and careful approach can convert into a strong performance against younger rivals like Piastri, Lando Norris, and Verstappen. For Alonso, every session is an opportunity to use his decades of experience to gain an edge, proving that in Formula One, wisdom can sometimes match youthful speed.
As the lights went out at Losail, Alonso’s steady, calculated style will be tested against the raw pace of the younger drivers. His legacy, built over 24 years, continues to influence not only his results but also the way he navigates the evolving challenges of Formula One today.
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