F1 News: Fernando Alonso Makes Bold Ferrari Prediction For Chinese Grand Prix

Fernando Alonso predicts a strong showing from Ferrari in Shanghai.

Jun 18, 2023; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Aston Martin driver Fernando Alonso (ESP) stands on the podium / David Kirouac-USA TODAY Sports

Fernando Alonso, having recently renewed his commitment with Aston Martin, has confidently predicted a strong performance from Ferrari at the upcoming Chinese Grand Prix.

Key Takeaways:

• Fernando Alonso anticipates Ferrari to excel at the Chinese Grand Prix due to the challenging track conditions.
• The format of the race weekend, featuring only one free practice session due to a sprint race, might mix up the usual race dynamics.
• Alonso's prediction is based on his firsthand experience and observations from behind the wheel.

Shanghai's circuit is known for its long, sweeping corners that test the limits of a car's front grip, similar to the challenges faced at the Australian Grand Prix. With Formula 1 returning to Shanghai after a significant break, teams will have minimal time to perfect their setups. This is primarily due to the weekend's format, where a sprint race limits teams to just one practice session. Alonso believes these conditions could level the playing field somewhat. The Spanish driver commented to the press ahead of the race weekend:

"Yes, I think always it gives us a little bit more of an opportunity when you have a little bit of deficit on the pace," Alonso commented, as quoted by GP Blog.

Discussing the specifics, Alonso pointed out that the "front limited" nature of the circuit should favour teams like Ferrari, known for their strong performance in similar track conditions. However, he also acknowledged the threat from Red Bull, which boasts a powerful DRS system that could be particularly advantageous on Shanghai’s long straight.

"Mixed conditions or sprint weekend, all these kind of things always give you something extra. But it's going to be tough. I think China, with these long corners, front limited circuit, maybe like Australia, I expect Ferrari to be very fast. But also Red Bull. We have a very powerful DRS. And maybe that helps in the long China straight. So let's see," Alonso elaborated.

When probed on how he could be so sure of Ferrari's potential dominance at the Chinese Grand Prix, Alonso’s response was straightforward and rooted in his extensive racing experience: "I drive the car on track. I see it."