As the 2023 Formula 1 season returns from the summer break, Fernando Alonso has weighed in on Aston Martin’s recent performance challenges, asserting that their current struggles are “not a surprise.”
The team’s promising start, with six podium finishes out of 12 races, has given way to a notable dip in performance, leaving Alonso standing on the podium most recently in Canada.
Initially, the AMR23 demonstrated strong potential, often seen as the second-fastest car behind Red Bull.
However, the fierce development battle among competitors like Ferrari, Mercedes, and McLaren has resulted in the loss of the team’s early-season momentum.
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Reflecting on the shift in the team’s fortunes, Alonso shared his perspective with the media, stating, “I said already in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia that more difficult times will come, obstacles will come during the championship in 22 races.
“I think maybe we are in one of those moments and it’s not a surprise.”
Aston Martin’s Team Principal, Mike Krack, remains optimistic about the situation, emphasising that the tight performance margins between the teams chasing Red Bull could facilitate their resurgence.
The team’s focus is now on chasing second place in the Constructors’ Championship, a position currently held by Mercedes, as they gear up for the remaining 10 races of the season.
Alonso applauded the team’s strong work ethic and their approach to overcoming challenges as they strive to regain their competitive edge.
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“It’s up to us to overcome those difficulties and the way you approach these difficulties, I think we are approaching in the best way possible,” he noted.
Ahead of the Dutch Grand Prix, Alonso is sat in P3 of the Drivers’ Standings, just one point ahead of Lewis Hamilton.
In the Constructors’ Standings, Aston Martin is also in P3, only five points clear of Ferrari, with the two teams on 196 and 191 points, respectively.