Two–time Formula One World Champion, Fernando Alonso, secured his 99th career podium and the first for his new team Aston Martin on debut at the 2023 season opener in Bahrain on Sunday.
The Spaniard, who was riding the wave of momentum following a strong showing in pre-season testing topped all but one of the three practice sessions at the Bahrain International Circuit. Leading many to believe that he could possibly be a threat throughout the weekend.
He qualified 5th on Saturday, only behind the Red Bull and Ferrari pairs.
It was smooth sailing off the line for the Spaniard, only to be tapped by teammate Lance Stroll soon after, allowing both Mercedes drivers to pass. Thankfully there was no damage and Alonso was able to race on.
At the tender age of 42, and the oldest on the grid, Alonso was the star of the show. He reminded us why he’s a two-time World Champion, following brilliant scraps with long-time rival Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz en route to the podium.
“This is a lovely car to drive”, the driver of the day reported to his team. It was both Alonso and Aston Martin’s first podiums since 2021.
“It’s a perfect start for this project. We didn’t expect to be that competitive. I think the aim in 2023 was to get in the mix with the midfield, maybe leading that midfield and get close to the top three teams eventually. A big congratulations to everyone. Let’s enjoy this moment and build from here hopefully a good 2023 campaign, and get closer and closer to the top guys,” the Spaniard reported after the race
Ahead of him, fellow two-time and defending World Champion, Max Verstappen lead home a Red Bull 1-2.
