F1 News: Fernando Alonso Was Pushed To Join Aston Martin After They "Raided" Red Bull

Aston Martin's strong performance in the F1 season, led by Fernando Alonso, has surprised many and positioned them as a formidable contender.

Aston Martin has emerged as the biggest surprise of the F1 season so far, with two-time world champion Fernando Alonso leading the charge. Alonso's decision to switch from Alpine to Aston Martin has proven fruitful, as he currently sits in third place in the championship standings.

Alonso's manager, Flavio Briatore, played a crucial role in the move. Having previously guided Alonso to his two world titles in 2005 and 2006, Briatore recognized the potential of Aston Martin and their strategic changes.

Briatore told the press:

"They (Aston Martin) raided the number two of Red Bull and Mercedes, and are investing heavily in technology and the factory." 

The signings of key personnel, such as Dan Fallows from Red Bull and Eric Blandin from Mercedes, have bolstered Aston Martin's capabilities.

Highlighting Aston Martin's recent performance, Briatore added:

"For these reasons, I pushed Fernando to join Aston Martin, which is now second (Constructors’ Championship) after (five) Grands Prix.

“Aston did well in the last round in Miami, although it was not exactly a circuit that suits the car well, but if nothing unexpected happens, the World Championship is already (decided), but some circuits like Monte Carlo can always (create) a big surprise.”

Despite the challenges, Alonso managed to secure multiple third-place finishes in the first five races, accumulating a total of 75 points, something that has put a huge smile on the Spaniard's face. 

While Aston Martin currently trails the dominant Red Bull team, their second-place standing in the constructors' championship is an impressive achievement. Surpassing the likes of Ferrari and Mercedes was unexpected but well-received.

Alonso's success with Aston Martin must be a source of satisfaction for the driver, especially as he outperforms his former teammate and rival, Lewis Hamilton.