Sainz: F1 should learn from Alonso exit
- Published on 25 Oct 2018 19:44
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- By: Fergal Walsh
Carlos Sainz believes that Formula 1 should look at the reasons behind Fernando Alonso's F1 exit going forward. Alonso confirmed earlier this year that he would be walking away from F1 at the end of 2018 after a series of uncompetitive years in the sport.
However, he claims that he is walking away not because of his uncompetitiveness, but because of the poor on-track action. Cars this season have found it increasingly difficult to follow each other due to the increased downforce they are producing.
And Sainz, who will take Alonso's seat at McLaren next year, says that F1 should reflect on his departure and take something valuable away from it: “I think the fact he is leaving is a big loss for Formula 1,” he stated in Mexico City ahead of this weekend's Grand Prix.
"To not have one of the best drivers or the best drivers in motorsport at the moment in the grid is a big loss. So I think it is something for Formula 1 and to everyone to consider why one of the best drivers is leaving and why we cannot have a bit more competitive grid where many drivers can fight for wins or for podiums. I think it’s a thing to consider and something to think about for the future.”
Next year will be Sainz's fifth season on the grid after he made his debut with Toro Rosso in 2015. He has always said that Alonso was his inspiration growing up, and mentioned it once again in the FIA press conference, admitting he will miss his compatriot.
“I followed Formula 1, I met him back in 2005, since then I really decided that I wanted to be a Formula 1 and gave it all to come here. To manage to compete against him the last four years have been a dream come true. Of course we will miss him.”
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Replies (7)
Login to replycalle.itw
Posts: 8,527
Maybe it should, yet we all know that nothing will be learned. Its like the game industry: one would think that the AAA companies constantly releasing botched trend chasing cash grab attempts would've netted them some knowledge at this rate, but nope. Constantly chasing the current trend too late with too soft attempts.
ajpennypacker
Posts: 2,475
They will move quickly to sort out anything that affects their bottom line. As much talent as the new generation brings, I don't see any big personalities coming up other than Max. If Lewis were to leave right now we'd be left with Daniel Ricciardo, and Max in terms of big personalities that fans love/hate passionately. I still Liberty is trying to do the right things, but suddenly it seems as though they stalled their progress.
As for Alonso, I think he's making the right choice. It will be a good opportunity to (1) pursue other ambition freely and still drive competitively (2) leave F1 while still rated as a top 2 driver, and (3) leave an open door in case McLaren miraculously manages to produce a competitive car again. Because I don't think McLaren would hesitate for a minute to bring Alonso to a competitive car.
calle.itw
Posts: 8,527
Yeah I remember that we've discussed that before at an earlier occasion, yet I dont necessarily agree. We also have KMag, Hulk, Stroll and Kimi. Even now, Leclerc looks set to potentially get that status too. But F1 do need to do something to retain driver interest, and it sure aint having 3 PUs.
Biggs
Posts: 5
Alonso made the wrong career moves, McLaren chose the wrong engine Honda. Its can all be blamed on the progress of F1 alone. F1 is where it is because the teams voted to have does hybrid engines. Alonso is where he is because of choice.
mcbhargav
Posts: 1,332
He is a great wealth of knowledge to both teams and drivers for both good and wrong reasons.
sadosalo
Posts: 198
GB's are over the top self-taken, look at Williams and McLaren living in the past. And no McLaren did not choose the wrong engine (Honda) its the GB mentality as they feel superior. Look at the FIA Formula 1 race director and safety delegate Charlie Whiting never wrong. Hamilton the F... pussy catwalk, in by far the best car on the grid but every race he points out that Ferrari is much faster. Bless the Lord Lewis. Brexit please!
KyalamiKid
Posts: 146
Or maybe we and F1 should stop trusting that the old garde will keep it interesting... I think we have an exciting bunch of young guys on the grid at the moment - those personalities will form as time goes by. Alonso has done nothing but moan for the last 2 years - moans that stem mainly from his own poor choices and diva behavior in the past. I, for one, am not going to miss him, plenty of hard driving youngsters there that deserve a seat