Horner praises 'tenacious' Alonso, draws similarities with Verstappen

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Red Bull team boss Christian Horner has lavished praise on Fernando Alonso, highlighting the confidence and tenacity displayed by the Spaniard and which are not unlike the qualities boasted by Max Verstappen.

Alonso's impressive run to second place in last weekend's Monaco Grand Prix justly reflected the second youth enjoyed by the 41-year-old with Aston Martin this season.

Alonso's brilliance and unmatched experience coupled with the qualities of Aston's AMR23 have allowed the two-time world champion to consistently challenge for top positions this season, proving that age is no barrier to success in Formula 1.

The Spaniards' rejuvenation serves as an inspiration to drivers and a testament to the enduring spirit of a true racing legend.

Looking back on last weekend's race, Horner stated that Verstappen and Alonso were "head and shoulders" above their rivals as they dealt with the dry-to-wet challenging event.

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"[Aston Martin] are the closest [to Red Bull]," Horner told the media. "You can see the rest of the field were a long way behind.

"It was only Fernando that was able to stay in touch with Max, keep within a pit stop window, dancing around that Safety Car window as well.

"It's always a great leveller when the circuit goes a bit damp or the conditions vary – then you see how the drivers adapt, and you can see both of those two guys were head and shoulders above the rest of the field."

Horner lauded Alonso for his unwavering tenacity behind the wheel, a trait that the 32-time Grand Prix winner shares with Verstappen according to Horner.

"It's great to see his confidence, the way he's driving the car," the Red Bull chief explained.

"He and Max are very similar in many respects; the way they drive, how tenacious they are. They're always pushing, and you can see that they enjoy that competition as well."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.