In the world of high-speed car racing, few names are as well-known as Fernando Alonso. This Spanish racing star has been competing for twenty years and has won the hearts of fans. He has not only achieved great success in Formula One but also continues to pursue excellence. Despite his remarkable accomplishments, Alonso’s journey is ongoing.
Right now the Aston Martin driver is on a mission to chase new challenges beyond the ones in traditional Formula One racing, such as taking on the Dakar Rally and the renowned Indy 500. As he looks back on his relentless pursuit of perfection, one can’t help but wonder what is it that motivates a champion like him to continue pushing the boundaries, and possibly follow the legacy of fellow racers like Carlos Sainz Sr. Here’s what he has to say:
The driver’s quest for Dakar glory
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As continues to excel on the tracks, Fernando Alonso’s ambitions are now stretching beyond the racetracks of Formula One and touching that of conquering the Dakar Rally and the Indy 500. Being driven by a strong desire to improve and push his capabilities, he aims to be the first to win all three prestigious events!
Polls of the day
Poll 1 of 6
Do you think Fernando Alonso will succeed in rally racing like Carlos Sainz Sr.?
Absolutely
No way
Maybe, but it's a long shot
Only time will tell
Do you think William Byron can hold his own against F1 drivers?
Absolutely
No way
Maybe, with some practice
Only time will tell
Whats your Perspective on:
Is Fernando Alonso's drive to follow Carlos Sainz Sr.'s footsteps a sign of his undying passion for racing?
Have an interesting take?
Do you think Sergio Perez is justified in blaming Red Bull for his struggles?
Yes, Red Bull's favoritism is obvious
No, Perez needs to step up his game
It's a mix of both
I don't care, it's all politics
Do you think Guenther Steiner made the right call by excluding Zhou Guanyu?
Absolutely
No way
Time will tell
Who cares?
Do you think Red Bull can maintain their dominance without Adrian Newey?
Yes, they have the talent
No, Newey is irreplaceable
Only time will tell
Max Verstappen will make it happen
He began racing at the tender age of three, sharing that he has had a similar passion for speed and competition that has remained unchanged since then. Describing his pursuit of perfection he said, “I still love that adrenaline of driving the fastest cars in the world. It’s a never-ending search for perfection. I keep adapting and keep driving to get better and better,”. This drive for self-improvement keeps him motivated and engaged in the sport he loves.
The driver began his career in 2001 with Minardi, finishing a strong ninth at Albert Park showing natural talent behind the wheel of a less powerful car. He later found his big break with Renault in 2005 when he was handed the opportunity to prove himself, and went on to become F1’s youngest World Champion before doing so again for a second year on the spin for good measure. Since then, Alonso has, through his time in F1, managed to bag up 32 Grand Prix wins and a whopping total of 106 podiums establishing himself as the greatest adversary for drivers like Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton in their prime.
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Fernando Alonso looked to veteran racer Carlos Sainz Sr. for inspiration ahead of his first participation in the Dakar Rally, singling out the Spaniard’s recent success in crossing the final rally off his bucket list at age 57 as something he hopes to emulate. By tackling opportunities not necessarily in Formula 1, he will be more than likely cemented as one of the most talented and versatile drivers to ever have raced on four wheels.
What’s your perspective on:
Is Fernando Alonso's drive to follow Carlos Sainz Sr.'s footsteps a sign of his undying passion for racing?
Have an interesting take?
Spanish driver’s legacy of racing
It’s well-known that Alonso has always looked up to the legendary rally driver who made a name for himself with incredible wins, including multiple titles in the World Rally Championship. It’s what inspired him to set sights on the Dakar Rally and add that prestigious title to his already impressive resume, which includes two F1 World Championships and a win at the 24 Hours of Le Mans!
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But just like how Carlos Sainz Sr had an impact on Alonso, the Aston Martin driver’s influence also extends to the younger generation, especially Carlos Sainz Jr! As the younger Sainz has often said that Alonso inspired him to chase his own dreams in Formula 1 after seeing the fellow Spaniard win his first World Championship in 2005.
So it is fair to say only that Alonso’s struggle epitomizes the power of ambition and pursuing personal development without let or hindrance. Whether he triumphs at the Dakar this year or not his story is an inspiration for young racers everywhere and proof that real champions are born through a thirst of determination to be the best. The next time you see Fernando Alonso — don’t forget to tweak your support banners a little further, as the man is headed for it all!
Debate
Is Fernando Alonso's drive to follow Carlos Sainz Sr.'s footsteps a sign of his undying passion for racing?