Fernando Alonso has sent a title warning to Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen, saying that if he has the car in 2022, they can expect him up there.
Alonso rolled back the years at the Qatar GP, taking a podium after a seven-year wait. He reminded everyone just how good he was, and why he is a two-time world champion.
This entire season, the Spaniard has been putting in exceptional performances in his Alpine, but hasn’t had that great stroke of luck to complement his efforts. He finally got it under the spotlights of the Losail International Circuit, and crossed the line in third place to send his fans into joyous celebrations.
With the 2022 season set to become a major overhaul to the sport as part of the new regulations, no one knows which team will be the fastest. It could be anyone ranging from the usual suspects to even Williams, and it could also be Alpine.
Alonso sent a title warning to Hamilton and Verstappen, saying that should he get a competitive car, he will challenge them for the championship.
As quoted by RaceFans, Alonso said, “It’s difficult to predict what is going to happen in the next few years.
“But I would love to be in the fight with them and whoever makes a good car next year. It’s a reset for everybody and it’s up to us to produce a fast car.
“It’s not like this year, which was a continuation of the last campaign. In 2022, everyone has the same cards so we need to play smarter and hopefully produce a fast car. If we are in that position I feel strong, I feel ready to take the battle and let’s see.”
Will Alpine be competitive in 2022?
With Alonso set to remain in F1 and with Alpine, his fans will be hoping Alpine can nail the regulations. Alpine themselves have been aiming to get to the top of the F1 food chain, and have been developing their 2022 car in earnest.
It will be an interesting 2022 season, with tons of wildcards and changes. But no matter what happens, a constant will be Alonso pushing his car beyond its limits.
Read more: Ocon happy to play wingman to Alonso in Qatar – “Slowed his rival down by three seconds”