Jul.13 (GMM) Fernando Alonso says Formula 1 is still “too boring” under the all-new technical rules that debuted in 2022.
The Spaniard says he only decided to return to the sport after a sabbatical last year because of the looming ground effect rules, which debuted this season with the intention of closing up the field and improving the racing.
When asked if the rules had succeeded, 40-year-old Alonso told NOS: “So-so.
“Unfortunately, Formula 1 is still very predictable,” said the Alpine driver, who insists he is yet to discuss extending his Alpine contract for 2023.
“Everything revolves around Red Bull and Ferrari,” Alonso added. “Only Max Verstappen, Charles Leclerc, Carlos Sainz and Sergio Perez can win.
“I don’t know any other sport like that.”
The two-time champion admits that the races are now “more fun” than before due to the aerodynamic effect that enables more slipstreaming and easier passing.
“But it’s still too boring, even if this is a feature of Formula 1,” Alonso added. “There will always be teams that are faster than others.”
When asked if the dominance of the top-two teams has therefore spoiled his return to the grid, he admitted: “A little.
“It’s great that sometimes there is a chance to stand out, like in Canada when I started from the front row with Max. I was able to show what people no longer expect from me.
“These things give me motivation, but getting on the podium on my own power? It’s hard to imagine,” Alonso admitted.
“We are not fighting for victories, and I don’t think the situation will improve quickly. The team is focused on the 2023 season already when the car should be better.”
He also hit back at those who think drivers like Alonso, and 35-year-old quadruple world champion Sebastian Vettel, are blocking the next generation of rookies from getting a chance in F1.
“I look at the situation differently,” Alonso insisted. “In motorsport, only laptime matters.
“If you are slow, then you are standing in the way of rising talents and should step aside. But I think it is drivers other than me who are blocking this fresh blood.”