(Motorsports news) In recent days, social media has been flooded with stories about Alonso either switching to Red Bull or preparing to retire. This was sparked by a cryptic tweet from Spanish TV journalist Albert Fabrega, who hinted at a significant story emerging in the paddock. While Fabrega never stated what the allegation was about, it sparked speculation that it was about a major shake-up in the driver market involving Alonso.
While news of Alonso racing somewhere other than Aston Martin next year has been completely denied, the double world champion made it clear ahead of the Brazilian Grand Prix that he was displeased with the crazy speculation. When asked about the situation, he responded, “It’s just rumours, normal paddock rumours, from people who are just trying to make fun of it and gain some followers, and these kinds of things.”
“But I’m not into that game.” Alonso stated at a press conference that he thought some people’s activities in spreading the rumors were incorrect, and that he had a negative reaction to what had happened. “I am not enjoying it because even in this room, I appreciate that all of you are journalists, professional people, that have been in F1 for so many years,” he went on to say.
You get respect, which is how it should be. So, all of the rumors are coming from people who aren’t even in this room and are only here to have fun, and I don’t think it’s funny when they play with things.” What Alonso was most upset about was the possibility that his links with Red Bull, or that he was losing faith in the Aston Martin project, might cause others to question his devotion. “Of course, that’s what they’re doing, but I’ll make sure there are consequences,” he said, declining to clarify on what he meant.
While Aston Martin is now going through a difficult period, having suffered its fair share of issues since an update arrived at the United States Grand Prix, Alonso stated that it is crucial to recall the wider picture of the team’s growth this year. “We are obviously not as competitive as we want it,” he went on to say. “And we’re all trying to get to our best level, which is obviously not the one we’re displaying right now.”
“However, we are reviewing some of the recent upgrades.” We have a sprint format in Brazil, so it may be a more traditional weekend for us, not innovating as much as the previous two. “Obviously, we are dissatisfied. Nobody is content with the current state of affairs, including Mike Krack. But, as I mentioned a few races ago, our team was 250 people two years ago, and we are now in the process of transitioning to be a competitor for the future with 800 people and a new factory.
“Seven podiums this year, 200 points more than last year, all of these things that are not typical of the current form.” We should not be happy, but we also cannot be overly dramatic about the situation when the 2023 season has been a great success for us.”
