A honeymoon is typically a short time of happiness and contentment in a new relationship, but between Aston Martin and Fernando Alonso, that period of bliss is still ongoing according to team boss Mike Krack.
Alonso enjoyed a remarkable first season with Team Silverstone, culminating in a stellar campaign and performances from the 42-year-old veteran were nothing short of exceptional, with eight podiums scored by the Spaniard across the season and runner-up spots claimed in Monaco, Canada and in the Netherlands.
Although Aston Martin’s results reflected the impressive work conducted by the team’s engineering department led by Dan Fallows, Alonso’s contribution was also clearly instrumental in the team’s success in 2023.
Aston Martin is clearly smitten with Alonso, and it would come as no surprise if the team were to offer him a contract extension, ensuring that their partnership continues to blossom in the years to come.
“As a team, we were blown away from the first day,” commented Krack whose admiration for Alonso’s commitment, passion, and composure is evident.
“To be honest with you, I always thought the first few months were a bit of a honeymoon, but I’m quite happy we have managed to extend that honeymoon.
“We received a remarkable team player, constructive at all times, especially when it was difficult. When the car was competitive – or, more competitive – it’s obviously easier to be constructive but the true qualities came out.”
And those qualities were clearly exposed during last October’s Mexican Grand Prix, a race that both Alonso and teammate Lance Stroll failed to finish during a wretched Sunday.
“For both drivers, it would have been easy to take the microphones and slam the team, and it would probably have been deserved,” said Krack.
“But the true qualities of the team-playing character of both drivers came out at that time. For me, that is one of the highlights of the season, that as a team, we managed to stick together in that time.”
As for prolonging Aston’s partnership with F1’s senior citizen beyond the end of 2024, Krack would welcome that prospect.
“I think I don’t have to answer that question. Absolutely yes!” he said.
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