07/08/2020 - 11:34
- Clarín.com
- sports
The Spanish Fernando Alonso was "extremely happy" with the confirmation of his return to Formula One in 2021, by the hand of the Renault team, with which he won his two world titles, in 2005 and 2006.
"Obviously it is an extremely happy day. P irst to return to F1 and also for making it to the team with whom I had my best experiences in the category . Happy for that, I know many people at Renault; I know their passion and how hungry for success they are. I think the new rules will give us an opportunity because it will make the championship more even, "he said at a telematic press conference.
Alonso also confessed that, despite the delay in the entry of the new regulations to 2022, "it is worth being in Formula One as early as 2021." "I cannot be happier. It is an important day for me," he said.
Already dressed in the colors of the diamond brand, Fernando Alonso assured that he is aware that 2021 may not be a successful year, but it will be key for the future: “2021 will be a preparation for me after two years without running with these cars and also for the team to have a good 2022 ”, he commented.
“I am aware of what is there, I have been away, but I have followed F1. Surely only one team will win in 2020 and 2021 -referring to Mercedes-. We have to work on our team and our future, I think the rules of 2022 will make teams closer and we have more options. With this in mind, I think there is time to work on the projects and I hope that a day like today will give us more motivation and strength to work. Renault has all the ingredients ; I'm calm ”, he expanded.
Alonso remarked that despite having been away from F1 for two years, he is in very good shape: "I think last year was especially active for me, this year is different because the world has stopped for several months." Last year with the endurance competitions and the preparation of the Dakar I did not stop almost a week of the year. I feel prepared and 100%. I have had great physical preparation and I am in better shape than ever, ”he said.
In addition, the two-time world champion argued that age, since he will return to F1 at 39, will not negatively influence his performance: “There has never been a classification in Formula One based on passport or day of birth. I feel good and hopefully it can be even faster than before, ”he snapped.
His first and great rival will be his teammate, the French Esteban Ocon, who after a year out of Formula One despite the good level shown in Force India -current Racing Point- has returned this season.
“I follow Esteban from the junior category, he went karting with one of my chassis. Nobody doubts Esteban's talent and his great personality, which I think is perfect for F1. I am happy to share team with him. We are not friends yet, because we have not spent much time together, but we have shared some time, even in virtual competitions in the last months, and I am delighted to share team with him. Hopefully we can together make Renault stronger , ”he said of his future partner.
In addition, he was confident in his ability to lead, both on and off the track, Renault's project to become F1 champions again. “Obviously, I am aware of the importance of his young driver academy. In my personal experience, every team that invests in it has a reward afterwards. I will try to help in its development with my experience and to give my best on the track and off it so that Renault returns to be world champion ; either with me on the track or helping a young driver to do it; I would be just as proud ”, he assured.
Alonso also commented on his upcoming participation in the Indianapolis 500 on August 23, the day in which he will try to claim victory to achieve the 'Triple Crown', which consists of winning the F1 Monaco Grand Prix - he did in 2006 and 2007-, in the 24 Hours of LeMans -2018 and 2019- and in the aforementioned American appointment.
“It is a very special race and this year it will be even more because we will have less experience and I will even have problems traveling to the United States. Happy to be there. Then in September we will start serious work by 2021, ”he declared.
Source: EFE