Fernando Alonso has high praise for Max Verstappen and believes he can compete for the world title until the end, but fears a similar title outcome as in 2012. That year, the Spaniard competed for the world title in the ‘third, fourth fastest car’ until the final race, but ultimately finished second. “They need to improve the car,” he said.
Max Verstappen maximized his chances with pole position and victory in the Japanese Grand Prix, bringing the four-time world champion within just one point of his title rival Lando Norris. After Verstappen, against all odds, put his RB21 on pole position at Suzuka, a smile appeared on Fernando Alonso’s face. “Only he can do this. It was a magical moment,” he told Viaplay’s camera.
Alonso sees similarities between this season and 2012. That year, the Spaniard, driving for Ferrari, finished as runner-up in the championship with 278 points. Only three points separated him from Sebastian Vettel, who became champion for the third year in a row in the Red Bull. “I’ve been there. I’ve fought for the world championship with the third, fourth fastest car,” Alonso told the media present at Suzuka. “In the end, Vettel won and I’m afraid the same could happen to Max. So far he’s doing well and keeping the championship alive, but I think they need to improve the car to really be able to fight for the championship in the long term.”
Long Season Ahead
Alonso predicts that Verstappen, even with a less competitive car, is capable of competing for the world title until the end of the season. “He’s won four, so he can fight with a slightly less competitive car. I don’t think people realize how hard it is to make every weekend perfect. And he’s doing it so far,” he praised.
Whether Verstappen can actually win the world title, Alonso is not 100% certain. He suspects it will be a long season for the Dutchman. “As I said, it reminds me in a way of 2012. When my car wasn’t that good and we were fighting for the championship. I hope for him that he wins, but it will be tough.”
