The prospect for the 2022 regulations reset to shake up the Formula 1 pecking order excites Fernando Alonso.
Fernando Alonso has stated that both he and Alpine are “ready” to face the challenges of Formula One’s latest innovative regulations, which will be implemented in 2022.
After a two-year hiatus, Alonso returned to Formula One in 2021, rejoining with old team Renault under the banner of Alpine, the French manufacturer’s specialised sports car brand.
Despite remaining in fifth place overall, the team scored a spectacular triumph with Esteban Ocon in Hungary, followed by a comeback to the podium for Alonso in Qatar, all while focusing on 2022 development.
Alonso, a two-time World Champion, believes Alpine is in a fantastic position to capitalise on the upcoming season and the sport’s new age.
“2021 was a good season for us; Esteban won a race, I was back on the podium and it was a kind of continuation of the 2020 performance from Renault,” said Alonso at the launch of Alpine’s 2022 F1 car, the A522.
“It felt also [like] we made a lot of progress. I think the team is now stronger, compared to 12 months ago, and I think we are ready for the challenge of this year.”
Why Alonso returned to Formula 1
The new F1 rules include a “ground effect” aerodynamic concept, larger wheels, and a slew of other technological tweaks.
“I hope so. I came back to the sport because of these regulations, so it has been one year and a half waiting for these cars!” Alonso remarked when asked if the new regulations will be a game changer.
“I think the team did an amazing job in the last year, building this car, so we are all very motivated.”
Alonso showed optimism in Alpine’s A522, indicating that a new engine was in the works, but admitted that only time will tell if the team can make progress.
“We won’t know where everyone stands until [the first race in] Bahrain, but we’re excited to take the car for its first spin in testing this week,” he said.
“I hope the new regulations have worked and we get more exciting wheel-to-wheel racing this year.”
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