Extraordinary Fernando Alonso and Red Bull ‘Promise’ Emerges
Alpine F1’s executive advisor and former Renault boss Flavio Briatore has hit back at critics who claim Fernando Alonso is “difficult to manage,” describing such comments as “nonsense.” Briatore, who has known Alonso for more than two decades, believes that the Spanish veteran still possesses the skill and determination to fight for a world championship — and even suggested that if Alonso were driving for Red Bull this season, he would be firmly in the title race.
Briatore and Alonso have a long and successful history together. The pair first worked side by side at Renault, the Enstone-based team, between 2003 and 2006. Under Briatore’s management, Alonso delivered two consecutive world drivers’ championships in 2005 and 2006, defeating the legendary Michael Schumacher during one of Formula 1’s most competitive eras. Their partnership also helped Renault secure back-to-back constructors’ titles, cementing the team’s place in F1 history.
Now, at 44 years old, Alonso continues to defy expectations by competing at the very top level with Aston Martin. Despite his age, the Spaniard remains one of the sport’s most talented and determined drivers. This season, Alonso sits 11th in the drivers’ standings, showcasing flashes of brilliance in a car that has struggled to match the performance of McLaren, Red Bull, and Ferrari.
Although Alonso hasn’t won a race since the 2013 Spanish Grand Prix, his 2023 campaign was a reminder of his enduring quality. He claimed eight podium finishes that season — a remarkable achievement given Aston Martin’s limited pace compared to the front-runners. Briatore argues that Alonso’s relentless drive and technical feedback continue to elevate any team he joins.
“People used to say Fernando was difficult to manage, but that’s pure rubbish,” Briatore told ESPN. “He’s a great teammate, he keeps the team united, and he brings out the best in everyone around him. Just look at Aston Martin now — even when the car isn’t competitive, Fernando’s spirit keeps the entire team motivated.”
Briatore went further, hinting that Alonso could still win another world championship if given the right machinery. “If Fernando were driving a McLaren or a Red Bull this season,” Briatore insisted, “I promise you he would be fighting for the world title. He’s that good — whenever the car is competitive, Fernando is always there.”
Alonso’s Enduring Legacy
Few athletes in motorsport history can match Alonso’s longevity and determination. He currently holds the record for the most Formula 1 Grand Prix starts — an astonishing 419 races — and has been active in the sport for nearly the entire 21st century. After becoming a two-time world champion by the age of 25, many predicted that Alonso would go on to dominate the sport for years. However, his career path took several unexpected turns, with rival champions such as Sebastian Vettel, Lewis Hamilton, and Max Verstappen emerging to define the following eras.
Alonso’s career has been a mix of extraordinary talent and unfortunate timing. His move to McLaren in 2007, which paired him with a rookie Lewis Hamilton, resulted in a tense and controversial season. He returned to Renault in 2008 and 2009, but the team was no longer championship-caliber. Still seeking another title, Alonso joined Ferrari in 2010 — a partnership that nearly brought him two more championships. He came heartbreakingly close to winning in both 2010 and 2012, losing out in the final races despite his heroic performances.
During his five-year stint at Ferrari, Alonso won 11 races and produced some of the most memorable drives of his career, reaffirming his reputation as one of the sport’s fiercest competitors. Yet, when Ferrari’s progress stalled, he made a bold move to rejoin McLaren in 2015. Unfortunately, the timing proved disastrous, as McLaren’s new Honda-powered cars were plagued by reliability issues and lack of pace. Alonso endured four frustrating years without a single podium, eventually stepping away from F1 in 2018.
That retirement was short-lived. In 2021, Alonso made a celebrated return to Formula 1 with Alpine, reigniting his passion for competition. Two years later, he switched to Aston Martin, where he quickly became a driving force behind the team’s impressive progress. Since his comeback, Alonso has collected nine podium finishes and continues to demonstrate that experience, skill, and determination can rival youth and speed.
Looking ahead, Alonso remains committed to chasing what could be his 33rd Grand Prix victory — a symbolic milestone that has become a rallying cry among his fans. With major regulation changes expected in 2026, Aston Martin hopes to provide Alonso with a car capable of challenging at the front once again.
Briatore summed it up best: “Fernando’s hunger has never gone away. He’s one of the greatest drivers this sport has ever seen. Give him a car that can fight, and he’ll show everyone he’s still world championship material.”
At 44, Fernando Alonso continues to prove that age is no barrier to ambition — only machinery stands between him and one final shot at glory.
