Alonso: “Verstappen will have less pressure”

When asked if Max Verstappen would feel more pressure after winning his first world championship title, Fernando Alonso didn’t hesitate. “I don’t think so, you have less pressure when you have achieved your dream,” said the Spanish driver, who became the first Spanish driver to win the world championship in 2005. “Now he will have more fun starting races, knowing that he is already a champion once. You can always try to fight for more wins, but you have less pressure,” he continued.

All the drivers who have raced in Formula 1 have had the dream of becoming a world champion one day, but few have achieved it, and even fewer have doubled the bet. Sebastian Vettel, a four-time world champion and one of the most decorated in the premier category, joined Fernando Alonso and acknowledged that his first title had lifted a big weight off his shoulders.

« It was a long time ago for me (2010, editor’s note). What I remember is that it’s a boost. It takes a lot of weight off your shoulders. It’s a great feeling to start a season as the defending champion. You have the number 1 on your car, so it’s a privilege. I think we would all want to be in that position, but there can only be one of us. » deciphered the German who races for Aston Martin.

It remains to be seen what Max Verstappen, who became the 34th driver and the first Dutchman to win the world championship, thinks about it.