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Fernando Alonso Gives an Update on His Relationship With Honda & It’s Not What You’d Expect

Published 12/17/2021, 11:33 AM EST

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Honda have officially left Formula One once again. They helped Red Bull and Max Verstappen win the world championship and departed from the sport. Alpine driver Fernando Alonso praised the contribution of the Japanese manufacturer to the sport.

When they entered the sport in 2015, they partnered with McLaren in the hopes of bringing back the glory days. But it did not go according to plan, as their partnership could not succeed. Alonso, who was driving for McLaren then, criticized their engine publicly on many occasions. So it is nice to see the two-time world champion appreciate the change in Honda’s fortunes since then.

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We still have a very good relationship: Fernando Alonso

As reported by hu. Motorsport, the Alpine driver revealed Honda made some key changes that have enabled them to become world champions. He stated that when they left McLaren, they could not even dream of getting back to the top of F1.

“Obviously, when they left McLaren, I don’t think they were in a condition to dream of a Formula One championship. But they did a very good job, the right people were appointed,” said Alonso.

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“I think they have changed their management and introduced a new philosophy and done their job well and I am very happy for them. I talked to Yamamoto at the last 3-4 grand prizes because I have a very good relationship with him. He was the driver of the Honda F1. He was the one who allowed me to test in MotoGP.” said the two-time world champion.

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Despite their acrimonious past, Alonso mentioned that he still shares a good relationship with the manufacturer.

“And we still have a very good relationship. And he was the first one I congratulated Max on Sunday after boxing. So I’m glad for them. And I’m sad they’re leaving now. But hopefully, they will return.” said the Alpine driver.

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It is really nice to see a big engine manufacturer like Honda get back on top in Formula One. Let’s see what the future holds for the company as far as participation in motorsports is concerned.

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Written by:

Devang Chauhan

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Devang Chauhan is an F1 author at EssentiallySports. Having completed his graduation in Journalism and Mass Communication, he has a keen eye for writing engaging and detailed articles on F1. Previously a writer for Sports Social's 'Chase Your Sport' Magazine, Devang has been an ardent follower of the sport for over a decade and has attended two editions of the Indian Grand Prix.
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