For over two decades, Fernando Alonso has been a constant figure in Formula 1. The Spanish driver, who clinched the world championship twice in 2005 and 2006, is now experiencing a new wave of recognition and support from fans, not only from his own era but also from the younger generation. As he bridges the gap between supporters of all ages, his influence on the sport remains undiminished.
“I think the younger generation found me a bit old in the last few years,” Alonso said after the Singapore GP. “Their parents must have bored them with stories about my world championships and my victories with Renault, McLaren, and Ferrari. Last year must have been a wake-up call for those young fans,” he referred to his first series of podium finishes with Aston Martin.
‘Connecting Factor’
“Suddenly it was like: ‘Wow, that Fernando Alonso is still here, still competitive, and I want to support him,'” the Spanish star explained. “Now I really see a mix of generations – generations that sometimes are twenty years apart – supporting me and interested in Formula 1. I see them at airports, on the street, at the circuit, and in my museum. It’s very hard to find an athlete in a sport who brings different generations together in this way.”
“Of course, there are fans who have been following me since the early years, who saw me win two titles and who now watch Formula 1 with their children,” Alonso concluded. “It’s incredible to think that I am that connecting factor. It’s very nice to complete the circle in that way.” For now, Alonso – who will soon be the first driver to race his four hundredth Grand Prix – is going nowhere. He has spoken a lot about retirement in recent months, but he has a contract with Aston Martin until 2026.
