F1 News: Fernando Alonso Can't Rule Out Podium Finish In Bahrain - "Feel Great"
Fernando Alonso has expressed his satisfaction with securing the sixth spot on the grid for the Bahrain Grand Prix. The seasoned driver was pleasantly surprised by his competitive performance, having had modest expectations following winter testing.
Key Takeaways:
- Alonso was unexpectedly competitive, closely matching Ferrari's pace, despite initial doubts post-winter testing.
- The two-time world champion remains cautiously optimistic about replicating his previous year's podium finish.
- Alonso will start the Bahrain Grand Prix from the sixth position, while Max Verstappen secured pole position.
Speaking to Sky Sports F1, Alonso shared his astonishment at the competitive edge he found himself wielding during the qualifying rounds. The Spanish driver commented:
"I feel great, I didn't expect to be that competitive. Winter testing was ok, but we were not in the pace of the leaders."
The weekend's practice sessions revealed a glimmer of potential that even Alonso hadn't anticipated.
"Three practices were competitive but we also found last year that we are running in a different engine mode from qualifying.
"To be in the mix and the same tenths as Ferrari is completely unexpected for us."
When probed about the possibility of climbing the podium once again, Alonso responded:
"Let's see, If you asked me last week I would have said it's 100% impossible, but now I cannot say that anymore, so it's good news."
The starting grid for the Bahrain Grand Prix places Alonso in a promising sixth. Max Verstappen, the reigning world champion, clinched pole position, setting the stage for an electrifying race. Charles Leclerc and George Russell are also set to start from second and third, respectively, adding to the fierce competition Alonso is set to face.