Portrait, Silverstone Circuit, F12403a, F1, GP, GREAT BRITAIN
Mike Krack, Team Principal, Aston Martin F1 Team, and Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin F1 Team
Alonso, a two-time Formula 1 champion, will become a free agent after the 2024 season and has been secretive about his future plans, even stating that he must decide whether he will continue racing or not.
Aston Martin has expressed their desire to keep Alonso for 2025, while he has not hesitated to show interest in a spot at Mercedes to replace Lewis Hamilton, who is moving to Ferrari. Additionally, Red Bull, which may have a spot in 2025 with Sergio Perez’s contract expiring, could be an option for Alonso.
Alonso displayed his typical intense performances in Japan last week, finishing sixth in the 2024 Japanese Grand Prix, overtaking two Mercedes and a McLaren. He also praised Aston Martin for surpassing their own expectations.
When asked if such performances would convince Alonso to renew his contract, Krack replied: “We need to improve our performance. We definitely need to improve. But I believe that if he can compete and not fall behind, it’s already a step in the right direction. And we won’t stop there. We will introduce new parts throughout the season to keep him motivated and happy at Aston Martin.”
Although Mercedes is an eight-time F1 Constructors’ Champion, their current form may not be appealing to drivers seeking a new team. Therefore, Aston Martin could be a more interesting option for Alonso.
“It’s interesting that you make that observation,” replied Krack when presented with that argument. “Because often we focus on the negative aspects, don’t we? That’s the nature of racing. But I agree, when we consider what has happened in recent years and the progress that teams have made, it’s good to see that there is a possibility at Mercedes. However, maybe it’s better for me to stay at Aston.”
Krack jokingly suggested that the Spanish media could speak to Alonso in Spanish and try to convince him. He also emphasized that Aston Martin has made significant progress but still has a long way to go. They aim to climb further up the ranks of the top five teams in Formula 1 and solidify their position.
In the world of Formula 1, different strategies are being employed by teams to ensure their future success. While some, like Zac Brown of McLaren, have chosen to align with Mercedes in the long term, Lawrence Stroll, the owner of Aston Martin, has taken a more shrewd approach. Stroll has signed a working agreement with Honda that extends beyond 2026, demonstrating his clear intention to turn Aston Martin into a formidable contender for the F1 title. Whether he will achieve this goal remains to be seen.
Naturally, Aston Martin’s partnership with Honda makes them an attractive option for drivers considering joining the team. However, according to Krack, there are also other factors at play. When asked about this, Krack stated: “It’s not just the working agreement with Honda, but also the other infrastructure projects that are underway. When we have the wind tunnel and the new simulator fully operational, along with Honda’s support, it becomes even more appealing than it was two years ago. However, it is important to remember that, although having these resources is good, ultimately success on the track is what matters most. That’s how teams are truly evaluated.” These statements were made by the 52-year-old engineer, a native of Luxembourg.
Currently, Aston Martin is in fifth place in the 2024 F1 Constructors’ Championship, trailing Mercedes by just one point.
© 2024
Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton secured another impressive victory at the Monaco Grand Prix this Sunday. With a flawless performance, Hamilton led from start to finish and crossed the finish line in first place, securing his fourth consecutive win this season.
The race in Monaco was marked by many exciting moments and risky overtakes. However, Hamilton once again showed why he is considered one of the greatest drivers in history. With his exceptional skill behind the wheel, he overcame all challenges and maintained control of the race from start to finish.
In addition to the victory, Hamilton also secured pole position in the qualifying session on Saturday, giving him a significant advantage in the race. He made the most of this privileged position and did not give his opponents any chances. With precise driving and well-executed strategies, the British driver dominated the race and secured another trophy for his collection.
With this victory, Hamilton further extends his lead in the drivers’ championship. He now has a total of 120 points, leaving his competitors far behind in the standings. It seems that the Mercedes driver is unstoppable this season and is on track for another world title.
However, the race in Monaco also had some tense moments. During the start, there was a collision between two cars, resulting in significant damage and the need for a red flag for track cleaning. Fortunately, the involved drivers did not suffer serious injuries and were able to return to the race later on.
Overall, the Monaco Grand Prix was another thrilling and adrenaline-filled race. Motorsport fans were able to enjoy a high-level sports spectacle, with overtakes, strategies, and plenty of speed. And in the end, it was Lewis Hamilton who shone once again, showing why he is considered one of the greatest drivers of all time.
