“Good Benchmark” – Alonso Lavishes Huge Praise on Ocon at Russian GP

Fernando Alonso, after two years away from the pinnacle of motor racing, made his comeback with the new/rebranded Alpine this season. And after an arduous start to life on his return to F1, Fernando Alonso has finally found his feet in the new car.

Both the Alpine drivers, Fernando Alonso and Esteban Ocon are currently tied 7-7 in the qualifying. Both the drivers push each other to perform better week in and week out. Which not only benefits the drivers but also the team. As the Enstone-based team secured their first win since the 2013 Australian GP at Hungaroring this season.

Meanwhile, ahead of the Russian GP, Fernando Alonso praises his teammate, Esteban Ocon, whose speed was a good benchmark for the Spaniard who made his comeback this year.

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What did Fernando Alonso say?

As quoted by SpeedWeek.com, Fernando Alonso revealed how his much-younger teammate, Esteban Ocon, helped him to adapt more quickly to the life of Formula 1 after the Spaniard’s two-year absence from the grid.

“So far this year, it’s been very close between us. Well, it wasn’t like that at the beginning, because I certainly lacked the speed,” said Fernando Alonso ahead of the Russian Grand Prix.

Formula One F1 – Hungarian Grand Prix – Hungaroring, Budapest, Hungary – August 1, 2021. Alpine’s Esteban Ocon celebrates with teammate Fernando Alonso after winning the race Pool via REUTERS/Florion Goga.

“That’s why it was so helpful that Esteban was in top form and was a good benchmark for me. That was very positive for me because it enabled me to adapt more quickly.” (Quotes translated via Google)

Alonso still eyeing up for the third world championship title

Fernando Alonso, who turned 40 in July, is aiming for his third world championship title. The Spaniard has already won the championship in 2005 and 2006 with the Enstone-based team.

As quoted by BBC, Alonso reveals winning a third world championship title is still his primary target.

“Inside, I have the same spirit and the same racing ambitions, and winning the third championship is the only thing that motivates me,” said Alonso.

Formula One F1 – Dutch Grand Prix – Circuit Zandvoort, Zandvoort, Netherlands – September 3, 2021. Alpine’s Fernando Alonso in action during practice REUTERS/Piroschka Van De Wouw.

“But with time you realize that not everything is under your control, there are things you cannot maybe overcome. If you don’t get there, at least you tried and were as close to the third championship as possible,” concluded Alonso.

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Can Fernando Alonso still win the third championship title with Alpine in the near future? What do you think? Let us know in the comments section below.

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