Alonso: Majority of F1 Drivers Accept Challenge to Dethrone Verstappen in 2024

Fernando Alonso notes positive developments with the new AMR24 car but remains cautious about replicating last year’s strong start, considering the significant advancements made by rival teams during the offseason. He highlights Red Bull’s extensive changes with the RB20, suggesting that Verstappen is the frontrunner for the drivers’ title, seemingly discounting his teammate Sergio Perez’s chances.

Fernando Alonso

Reflecting on the early testing sessions, Alonso indicates that many drivers in the paddock likely perceive Verstappen as the title favorite, a sentiment echoed by leading figures like Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes’ James Allison. With Red Bull’s dominant performance in the previous season, Alonso suggests that winning races will be challenging for other teams.

Despite achieving his best-ever pre-season fitness levels, Alonso remains cautious about translating personal fitness into race results, drawing from his experience during his second stint at McLaren. He stresses that in Formula 1, success isn’t only about physical condition, citing instances of incongruent performance.

As the 2024 season approaches, Alonso and the rest of the field brace themselves for the challenge of dethroning Verstappen and Red Bull, aware of the sport’s unpredictability and the formidable competition ahead.