Fernando Alonso has qualified P2 in Canada while Max Verstappen sits first! The two world champions have a considerable generational gap between them, with Verstappen being 24 while Alonso is 40. This is also the first time Alonso will start on the front row in a decade.

The crowd pulled up a big cheer for the Spaniard after he replaced Carlos Sainz on P2 on the last lap. It was a tremendous effort from the two-time world champion given that Ferrari has been very fast this season.

After hearing about Alonso’s grid finish, Verstappen commented on the Spaniard. He said, “It’s been a while to be on the front row together (with Alonso). I used to look at F1 as a kid and seeing Fernando up there and winning he’s (his) races and championships… To be sharing the front row is a nice thing. Fernando is getting a little bit old but he is still very fast. I know he starts very well so I have to be ready.”

Alonso also reacted when told about the Dutchman’s ‘old’ comment. Smiling, he answered, “Yeah, well, I will pass him tomorrow at the start.” With Alonso’s current form and determination, he has set fans up for a grand opening. Despite Red Bull having much faster cars, the Spaniard is not to be written off so easily.

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He has held back Lewis Hamilton in a Mercedes, which is usually faster than the Alpine. Further, Alonso’s defensive skills and smart tactics can always turn a race around in his favor. But, that is, if he manages to get ahead of Verstappen‘s very quick RB-18.

Can Fernando Alonso do something to hold back Max Verstappen?

Alonso has performed decently well in qualifying sessions this season. Though the driver has been unlucky with points at times, he has usually impressed in one way or another. Back in Australia, if not for the crash, Alonso’s sectors suggested he was about to lock in a front grid position.

He often takes provisional pole only to lose it to the much faster cars. Clearly, his efforts have been very impressive, given his performances in a car that is not even arguably world championship built. Does Alonso have a shot at winning the Canadian Grand Prix?

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