Alonso – “We Really Deserved Eighth and Ninth Places”

McLaren driver Fernando Alonso was a major benefactor of a clever strategy call from the team. In the end, the Spanish veteran finished eighth at the Hungarian Grand Prix. The grateful birthday man praised his team for their contribution on a tough day in the mid-field.

He was quick to highlight his team’s quick thinking as both McLarens were running in the points. Sadly, Stoffel Vandoorne’s car faltered, to his dismay.

Speaking to reporters, Alonso said that it was a truly happy day for them. He was especially delighted with the strategy. The 37-year old commended the pit wall for an amazing job of extending the first stint. This strategy placed them in a prime position for a solid points finish.

He continued, “Again we struggled on Saturday, even if it was mixed conditions, but on Sunday we delivered the result and more points for the team.”

According to him, they deserved to finish in eighth and ninth position. Sadly, the double points finish was cruelly snatched away by a gearbox problem for Stoffel. Barring that mishap, Alonso concluded that it was an all-round perfect day for them.

Things looked up for them as Esteban Ocon’s Force India held up the bulk of the midfield. So by the time, the two pitted, they emerged well ahead and in clear air. Stoffel Vandoorne hung on to the coattails of his veteran teammate for most of the race. Sadly, on lap 50, he was forced to park his McLaren with a gearbox issue, his second DNF in the space of a week.

Now, the McLaren team will be heading into the month-long summer break in order to recharge. They will also be looking to get to the bottom of the issue that halted Vandoorne’s progress. Hopefully in Spa, they have things sorted out for the better.