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Passing the Baton: Fernando Alonso Endorses Lance Stroll as Future Aston Martin Leader Amid Retirement Plans
Fernando Alonso endorses Lance Stroll as the future leader of Aston Martin after his F1 retirement.
Fernando Alonso is of the opinion that Lance Stroll will "take charge" of Aston Martin upon his eventual departure from Formula 1.
Since joining Aston Martin at the beginning of 2023, Alonso has consistently outperformed his teammate in their direct comparisons.
In the 2024 qualifying rounds, the competition is tight, with Alonso slightly ahead 5-4. However, in the overall rankings, the double world champion has a significant lead, scoring 33 points to Stroll's 11 points.
Last year, Alonso outpaced Stroll by a notable margin, securing eight podium finishes, while Stroll's best result was only a fourth-place finish at the Australian Grand Prix.
At the age of 42, Alonso holds the title of the most senior driver among his peers, yet he has sealed a fresh agreement with Aston Martin, potentially ensuring his stay with the squad until the close of 2026.
Upon his retirement, he firmly believes Stroll will be the one to steer the team forward.
"Upon entering Formula 1, there's an overwhelming sense of rivalry within the team and throughout the sport; it's fierce. However, being in your twenties, there's a natural timidity you feel, especially since your teammates are typically older and more seasoned," Alonso shared with The Times.
"Currently, my perspective has shifted; I am now the most senior, possessing the most experience, and I sense the duty of guiding the team resting upon me. This includes aiding both the engineers and Lance. My commitment to the team extends far into the future, beyond my driving years, and Lance will eventually take over the leadership role. He will always have my backing."
Alonso's most recent contract in Formula 1 ensures he will continue to compete until the age of 44.
He admitted that, similar to Max Verstappen who has often stated he plans to retire from F1 before reaching his mid-30s, he too believed he would leave the sport sooner.
Alonso remarked, "That was my mindset too when I was as young as Max. It's quite an odd feeling because we're among the fortunate few, just 20 of us globally racing in Formula 1. Naturally, you'd assume you'd want to keep doing it as long as you're quick on the track and it brings you joy. However, paradoxically, it also strips away all the other aspects of your life that bring you happiness."
"We'll make some changes, including having my family attend more events among other things, to minimize the negatives."
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