In an exciting duel during qualifying for the Monaco Grand Prix, Max Verstappen, the current Formula 1 championship leader, won the fight for pole position.
However, in a surprising way, Verstappen has openly expressed his admiration for his formidable opponent, Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso.
Like Verstappen, Alonso boasts two world titles, but it has been a long and arduous journey since his last win at Ferrari ten years ago.
At the remarkable age of 41, Alonso’s revival fascinates motorsport enthusiasts as he fearlessly challenges the Red Bull team’s supremacy.
In an awe-inspiring spectacle, Fernando Alonso came tantalizingly close to pole position, but was overshadowed by an astonishing lap from Max Verstappen that will be remembered by generations to come.
Verstappen’s exceptional performance secured the coveted first place, but it is worth noting that Alonso will start the race from an impressive position right next to him on the front row.
Adding a touch of humor to the mix, the Spanish racing veteran jokingly hinted during the press conference that perhaps championship leader Verstappen could help him, facing a slow start today.
“I think we need Max’s help, but we can’t… assume that all three cars will finish the race without problems. This is Monaco and it will be challenging,” Alonso said.
When asked jokingly about wanting to help, Max Verstappen replied with a chuckle.
“I mean I like to see Fernando win, but I also like to see myself win. It’s hard, I’ll think about it.
Max Verstappen, who is 25, has long expressed admiration for Fernando Alonso, the 2005 and 2006 champion.
“I grew up watching Fernando in F1 and I liked his style and the fact that he is still here at 41 is very impressive and I think he is a great example for people,” he said.
“If you stay committed and believe in yourself, believe in the opportunities that come up, you can show something like what he’s doing now. But, of course, you also need a lot of natural, raw talent.”
Since joining Aston Martin this season, Fernando Alonso has achieved remarkable consistency, with four podium finishes in the form of third place in five races.
Today’s race is a promise of even greater success for him as he wants to surpass what he has achieved so far.
In addition to his track performances, Alonso recognizes the importance of showcasing his speed and skills to the new wave of fans attracted by the popular Netflix documentary series Drive to Survive.
These viewers have only been able to witness Alonso’s talents in less competitive cars, which makes it all the more satisfying to demonstrate his true capabilities on a larger stage.
“Maybe … they only saw me fighting for Q3 (final qualifying phase) or something or retiring from the race with smoke in the back.”
“Now I think they are surprised to see me struggling a bit up front,” he concluded.
