Fernando Alonso, a revered figure in Formula 1, recently shared his thoughts on what he perceives as a significant shift in the essence of the sport since his debut in 2001. According to Alonso, the current generation of drivers finds it “easier” to driver their cars owing to the technological strides made over the years.
“It is, in a good way, easier for the drivers of this generation to drive Formula 1 cars,” Alonso stated to The Times (via Racing News365), contrasting this with the earlier challenges that lent an almost “heroic” quality to drivers of his era.
Looking back on his illustrious 21-year career, which began with Minardi and has seen him rise to a two-time world champion, Alonso reflects on a Formula 1 landscape that has evolved dramatically. Modern advancements have not only altered the driving experience but have also shifted the cultural perception of drivers. He reminisced about a time when young drivers like himself were viewed as “heroes” for their daring and skill.
“Whereas before it was more heroic. It’s a strange feeling, not a sad one, but I remember when I made my debut and I came to an event, I saw this respect towards me and I was one of those heroes that drove these super-fast cars,” Alonso shared.
Fernando Alonso of Spain and Aston Martin F1 Team looks on from the drivers parade prior to the F1 Grand Prix of Canada at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve on June 09, 2024 in Montreal, Quebec. The…
Chris Graythen/Getty Images
The transition to a data-driven sport has been significant, marking a departure from the instinctive driving of the past. Alonso noted: “I remember when I got to Formula 1 20 years ago, the engineer was not able to explain anything to me about the car.”
This starkly contrasts with today’s detailed data insights and simulation-based preparation.
“Now, drivers are very well prepared, they have 200-300 laps on a circuit that they will race, so they know perfectly every bump, every corner, every kerb,” he added.
The shift from physically walking the tracks to relying on simulators represents a broader trend towards precision and preparedness in modern F1.
“The teams are now much more sophisticated so they can tell the driver how to brake in that corner, how to warm up the tyres, how to prepare for qualifying, how to drive in the race.”
These technological and cultural shifts, while enhancing safety and performance, have diluted some of the raw challenges and adventures that defined earlier eras of Formula 1. Alonso’s reflections provide a poignant insight into the evolving narrative of what it means to be a Formula 1 driver.
As the sport evolves, the question remains: What elements of the ‘heroic’ age of F1 will persist, and how will the drivers of tomorrow redefine heroism on the circuit?
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Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Source : Newsweek