Formula 1 driver, Fernando Alonso, has expressed caution ahead of the new sprint qualifying format being tested for the first time in Baku. The new format will see Saturday’s sessions switch to sprint qualifying and race sessions, leaving only one practice session over the weekend. The format will be used in five more races this year.
Possible Mistakes and Damage for Aston Martin
Alonso, who has enjoyed a successful start to the season with Aston Martin, has finished in third place in the opening three races. However, he has concerns that the new format could create opportunities for big mistakes, particularly for his team, which has become a front-runner this season. Heavy damage could impinge on the team’s race on Sunday, and it is very easy to make a mistake, especially in Baku where there is no room for error.
Aston Martin’s Approach to the New Format
Alonso reiterated that opportunities for Aston Martin to beat Red Bull to a first race win of the season would only be possible if the Milton Keynes squad made mistakes itself. The team would approach the new format cautiously, and the low-downforce rear wing that Aston Martin had brought to Baku would help the team raise its game in the straightline speed stakes. However, the team would have to be content with accepting lower points finishes if the car was not capable of more.
Alonso’s Hope to Keep Challenging Red Bull
Alonso said that the new format would make the season interesting, but if his team finished in sixth or seventh place, they would have to accept it as their natural position. Nevertheless, the team would not give up hope of trying to keep challenging Red Bull and win a race one day.
Overall, Alonso believes the new sprint qualifying format creates a weekend of avoiding mistakes instead of making something special. Therefore, the team needs to approach the new format in a very cautious manner.
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