Double world champion Fernando Alonso believes Aston Martin can win a race during the 2023 Formula 1 season after his superb form at the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix where he finished third behind the Red Bull duo of Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez.
The 41-year-old joined the Silverstone-based team from Alpine at the end of last season and showed solid pace all weekend, finishing on top in two of the three free practice sessions before securing fifth place in qualifying for Sunday’s race.
During the race, Alonso outpowered the Mercedes of seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton and the Ferrari of Carlos Sainz Jr. to take the final podium place. Aston Martin’s strong showing suggests they could be something of a dark horse that could contend with championship contenders Ferrari and Mercedes.
“Yep. I would say yes because when you are P3 in race one, there are 22 opportunities this season,” Alonso said when quizzed about Aston Martin’s chances of winning a race this year.
“Even last year, I remember in Canada, wet qualifying, we were in the first row of the grid. You know, anything can happen in 22 races with different conditions. And, you know I will try my best to have the opportunity.
“Maybe we need some help. Last year, we needed some help from the top teams just to get the podium.
“But maybe this year, if there is this help or there are some retirements in front of us or some problems, maybe it’s more than a podium. So, let’s hope for that.”
A weekend to remember. ????#BahrainGP pic.twitter.com/3xK1FB3eua
— Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant F1 Team (@AstonMartinF1) March 5, 2023
Alonso also hailed teammate Lance Stroll who finished in sixth place despite nursing wrist and toe injuries he suffered from a cycling accident which made him miss all of pre-season testing.
“First of all, I think congrats to Lance, my team-mate,” Alonso said. “He had the surgery 12 days ago and now he’s fighting right with everybody.”
Alonso will be looking to put in another strong performance when F1 heads next to the Jeddah Corniche Circuit for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in a fortnight.
