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Fernando Alonso Reveals the F1 Team He Supported Growing Up

Published 10/29/2021, 3:52 PM EDT

Fernando Alonso is one of the best drivers in Formula One history. Despite winning just two titles in Formula One till now, he has put some memorable performances on a racetrack. He won his two titles in the sport with French outfit Renault. But, in a surprising revelation, he stated he did not support the team growing up.

In a recent interview, Alonso stated he supported the Mclaren team when he was a kid.

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” I supported initially McLaren,” said the Alpine driver. Alonso growing up idolized McLaren driver Ayrton Senna, so his choice is quite valid. During his second stint at the team in 2015, he even got to drive the Brazilian’s Mclaren with then-teammate Jenson Button.

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It was a very emotional day: Fernando Alonso

As reported by Autosport, the former Mclaren driver got the chance to drive Senna’s 1988 car. He mentioned the entire experience as wonderful. He also stated that he was very emotional after driving the car.

“It was a very emotional day. The car is legendary; the most dominant car in Formula 1,” said Alonso.

“I had the privilege to do eight or nine laps, I think, and to hear Jenson enjoying the differences in the cars. Even if you don’t push to the limits, it’s something that I will not forget. It was a wonderful experience.” said Fernando.

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Although Alonso mentioned that the technology in the cars has developed since then. He pointed out the differences from Senna’s Mclaren to the modern cars.

“Obviously there are more complicated things we have now because of technology compared to the old car.You have everything manual – there is no power steering assistance, and there are three pedals and manual shift.

“I think it’s like a computer from the ’80s [compared to] a computer from now. It’s changed a lot. But in motorsport the good thing is that you compete against the others, so in the ’80s and ’90s and [even in] 2050 you will try to get better than the others with whatever technology you have in your hands.” said the former McLaren driver.

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It is such a shame that Alonso did not have the best of times at his favorite team he supported. It would have been nice to see Alonso replicate the achievements of his hero Senna in McLaren.

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Written by:

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.

Fernando Alonso Reveals the F1 Team He Supported Growing Up

It was a very emotional day: Fernando Alonso

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