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The Fernando Alonso Saga: How Williams Tried (and Failed) to Steal the F1 Legend in 2022

Publisher by Publisher
December 15, 2024
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 4 mins read
0
Fernando Alonso Eyes a Third World Title as He Extends Aston Martin Stint

The summer of 2022 was nothing short of a whirlwind for Fernando Alonso and the Formula 1 paddock. As Alpine stumbled in managing both Alonso and rising star Oscar Piastri, chaos unfolded, and the Aston Martin opportunity emerged. However, in a surprising twist revealed by Flavio Briatore, Alonso’s longtime manager, Williams made a bold play to lure the two-time world champion to Grove before his eventual move to Aston Martin.


Williams’ Bold Move Amid Alpine’s Collapse

At the time, Alonso’s relationship with Alpine was fraying, with mismanagement and poor communication taking center stage. Briatore, reflecting on the period, didn’t mince words: “Losing two drivers like Fernando Alonso and Oscar Piastri in one summer was a bit of an inability,” he said in an interview with Auto Motor und Sport.

While Alpine’s management was caught in disarray—highlighted by former CEO Laurent Rossi disappearing mid-negotiations—Williams seized the opportunity to approach Alonso. However, Briatore dismissed the offer bluntly. “I said to them: get your shop in order first,” he stated, hinting at the gap between Williams’ ambitions and its then-limited competitiveness.


Why Alonso Chose Aston Martin Over Williams

For Alonso, the Aston Martin proposition was far more appealing. The team offered a clear vision for the future under Lawrence Stroll’s leadership, supported by significant investment in infrastructure and personnel. By contrast, Williams was still in the early stages of rebuilding—a process now spearheaded by James Vowles, who joined as Team Principal in 2023.

“In the end, we signed with Aston Martin because we couldn’t get on with Alpine’s management,” Briatore revealed. Aston Martin’s promise of a competitive car, coupled with the potential to fight at the front, sealed the deal for Alonso.


Aston Martin’s Future with Alonso: Adrian Newey and Honda

Fast-forward to 2024, and Alonso’s decision to join Aston Martin appears vindicated. With a contract extension through 2026, Alonso will be integral to Aston Martin’s evolution as they prepare to become a Honda works team. The team also secured a blockbuster signing in Adrian Newey, who will join as Managing Technical Partner in 2025, raising expectations of championship contention.

These developments have solidified Aston Martin as a force to be reckoned with. Alonso, who will be 45 by 2026, is showing no signs of slowing down. “Fernando is the exception,” Briatore said. “He has money, but no children. And he is still hungry. If he finishes 14th, he wants to be 13th.”


What Could Have Been at Williams

Alonso’s near-move to Williams underscores the team’s ambitions, even during a period of rebuilding. Since then, under James Vowles’ leadership, Williams has taken steps to reclaim its place among F1’s elite, investing in infrastructure, personnel, and long-term planning for the 2026 rules cycle.

However, in 2022, Williams lacked the stability and resources to convince a driver of Alonso’s caliber to join. Aston Martin’s rapid progress, by contrast, offered Alonso the chance to compete at the sharp end of the grid, and he jumped at the opportunity.


A Fitting Farewell in 2026?

As Alonso looks to the future, the possibility of a championship-winning farewell looms large. With Adrian Newey designing Aston Martin’s 2026 challenger and Honda providing factory engines, the team is poised for a title push.

“For Fernando, wouldn’t a World Championship title as a farewell be a brilliant story?” Briatore mused.

Whether or not Alonso achieves that elusive third title, his enduring hunger and competitiveness continue to defy expectations in a sport increasingly dominated by younger drivers.


The Legacy of Alonso’s Decision

Williams’ failed attempt to sign Alonso in 2022 highlights the allure of a clear vision and competitive machinery in Formula 1. While Williams is now on a path to resurgence, Alonso’s choice to join Aston Martin has paid off, positioning him to potentially cap his illustrious career with a final championship run.

As F1 gears up for the next era, Alonso remains a living testament to longevity, resilience, and the never-ending pursuit of greatness. Whether 2026 delivers a fairytale ending or not, Alonso’s story continues to be one of Formula 1’s most compelling chapters.

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