Alonso relentlessly driven by ‘hope’ amid Aston Martin’s struggles

Fernando Alonso says his belief that his experience and feedback will help Aston Martin turn around its fortunes is the main fuel powering his motivation as his team navigates its way through a difficult period.

Alonso's career at the pinnacle of motorsport has been one of relentless determination, grit, and an unquenchable thirst for success.

But all of the F1 veteran’s qualities and his tireless commitment haven’t been enough to carry Aston Martin back to the sharp end of the grid this season, as the team’s development struggles have left them adrift in F1’s midfield.

Yet, the two-time world champion – whose last victory in F1 dates back to his home race in Barcelona in 2013 – refuses to succumb to disappointment.

Despite the challenges and current hardship, the 43-year-old remains a paragon of professionalism who continues to extract every ounce of performance from his car, knowing that each lap provides crucial data to his Aston team.

Speaking to the media recently, Alonso reflected on what keeps him motivated even when competing for positions far below his aspirations.

“It’s the hope that is always there,” he said, quoted by Motorsport Week.

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Alonso views even modest battles on the track as opportunities to glean insights that can shape Aston Martin’s future.

“Obviously, in terms of positions and efforts, you will say that it’s not worth fighting for P12,” he admitted.

“But if that P12 gives any insight to the team of what we are missing, if you are fighting with other cars and you see some weaknesses, some strengths, you can feed back to the team and you can improve for the next race or next year.

“That’s already worth doing it, and it’s that hope that next year is going to be your year, that it keeps you alive and it keeps you motivated.”

This forward-looking mindset has defined Alonso’s approach, allowing him to endure seasons with uncompetitive machinery without losing faith in his ability—or his team’s potential.

But Alonso’s perspective goes beyond personal ambition. He feels a deep sense of responsibility to the 900 employees working tirelessly at Aston Martin’s factory in Silverstone.

Their collective effort fuels his determination to perform at his best, regardless of the circumstances.

“As well with the 900 people working at the factory, they are not really counting on P12 or winning races,” he underscored. “They are doing the best they can every single day from 8 to 5 to provide the best car possible.

“So, you know, every lap you do there, you feel privileged to do it, and you represent a team and a brand, in this case with Aston Martin. And you are happy to give your 100 percent every lap for whatever position it is at the end.”

Alonso’s words underline the Spaniard’s respect for the collective effort that goes into fielding a Formula 1 car. For him, every race is a chance to honor the dedication of his team by giving his all, no matter the odds.

For Alonso, success is not just about standing on the podium but also about contributing to a team’s growth and development.

His insights, forged through over 400 race weekends, remain invaluable to Aston Martin. As the team looks to regroup and refocus for 2025 and beyond, Alonso’s experience and feedback could prove to be the cornerstone of their resurgence.

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