Alpine F1’s Fernando Alonso is ‘very excited’ to return to F1 as he prepares for his comeback in this weekend’s 2021 season opener in Bahrain.
Speaking in Alpine’s pre race weekend preview, Alonso spoke of how much hard work has gone into this moment, saying: “I’m very excited for the entire weekend.
“There has been a lot of preparation for this moment, not only with the team during testing and the work done at both factories over the winter period, but also personally.”
Continuing his recovery from a jaw fracture in a cycling incident in Switzerland last month, Alonso also reflected on his experiences away from F1 in which he participated in World Endurance Championship and other disciplines.
Speaking about the lessons he has gained during his two-year sabbatical, Alonso said: “I learnt a lot in my time away from Formula 1, especially all the different styles of racing, but I’m now back in F1 and very motivated for what should be a challenging season ahead.”
Alonso’s new teammate, Esteban Ocon meanwhile is aiming for a first podium on the traditional Grand Prix circuit layout after finishing second on the outer layout in December’s Sakhir GP which he remarked as being ‘very special memories’ for him.
Ocon however chose to set a realistic target for this weekend, commenting: “We’ll remain realistic, though, and look to put together a strong race weekend and grab any opportunity that comes up.
Alpine Chief Executive, Marcin Budkowski also spoke in the team’s preview as he noted that the team enjoyed “a good pre-season test” without major issues and look to be “… in better shape than previous seasons.”
Budkowski however mentioned that there are “some unanswered questions” surrounding their A521 car, and that the team are reviewing data to enable better understanding and have further tests planned in Friday Practice.
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