While he says it’s important to be in the best car, Fernando Alonso also believes Lewis Hamilton is the top performer on the grid.
Hamilton became at least statistically the most successful driver in the history of F1 in 2020, won his seventh world championship and surpassed Michael Schumacher’s record number of race wins.
However, some believe his success is largely due to the fact that he had the best car on the grid, rather than his own abilities. Alonso disagrees.
“Okay, he has a dominant car, but he is better than his team-mate,” he said brand.
“You always have to show up, he can’t afford a bad weekend, he’s at the peak of his performance. Hopefully we can fight Lewis soon, not next year, but soon.
“I think a lot of people can win a Grand Prix with this car and win championships with this car. That doesn’t mean anything bad about Lewis, like I said, he’s one step ahead.
“How important is the car? What is it like to be in the right place at the right time? It is very important. This is Formula 1 and it always has been, but when you are in this place and moment you have to perform and Lewis is doing it better than anyone.
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Alonso will face Hamilton for the first time since 2017 when he’s back on the line with Renault and he feels as capable as ever.
“I’m not worried when I get back. I think I’m more mature than ever, ”said the Spaniard.
“The physical tests show that I am just as fit as I was in 2010. I analyzed the way I drove in order to correct any deficiencies. My speed has remained intact and the Le Mans and Indy experiences have provided me with very useful data.
“What am I afraid of? Maybe a calendar with 23 races. It’s going to be difficult. It means about 20 days off a year. “
In terms of his goals, he is aiming for a loftier goal than Renault’s 2020 triple podium.
“Renault achieved three podium places in 2020. I want to improve that. I would like more next year, ”he added.
“I think we have the talent, the factory and the ambition. [We must keep] our feet on the ground because we are competing with very large manufacturers and very large organizations so we have to do our best. “
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