Alonso happy for Räikkönen and surprised for Alguersuari
Invited to comment on the return of Iceman, Fernando Alonso was effusive in his praise for someone who has long been his competitor and will be again next season. Asked about the replacement of Jaime Alguersuari, the Spaniard was surprised by the management of the Toro Rosso team.
After starting together in the premier class during the 2001 season, Kimi Räikkönen and Fernando Alonso crossed swords on several occasions, particularly during the 2005 and 2007 seasons when both were contending for the title. After two seasons of rallying, the Finn will make his grand return to Formula 1 with the Lotus team, news that seems to delight the Spanish double world champion.
« I wish him a good return. He is a great driver. He is one of the most talented on the grid, a world champion, a wonderful person… So, it will be a pleasure to race against him » said Fernando Alonso during a press conference held in Madrid. « I don’t compare him with anyone, but it’s not the same to start a race and approach the first corner with Kimi Räikkönen at your side as it is with a young driver or a rookie. Competing with champions like that gives you a different feeling and more security ».
The Ferrari driver also commented on the dismissal of his compatriot, Jaime Alguersuari: « I don’t really have an opinion on this matter. I don’t know how Toro Rosso works and whether they were happy with their drivers or not. I’m probably as surprised as anyone that they suddenly changed both drivers, because usually you need consistency in a team. Replacing both is like starting from scratch, and the winter might be more challenging in terms of developments and testing ».
But I am also surprised by the fact that Sutil did not stay or about other drivers. Also, I understand that Toro Rosso is the junior team of Red Bull and they have many young drivers for only two spots. They feel the need to change and try out two young ones. As a reminder, Jaime Alguersuari and Sebastien Buemi were replaced by Daniel Ricciardo and Jean-Eric Vergne for the 2012 season. The Spanish contingent should still not see a decline, as Pedro de la Rosa has been confirmed by the HRT team.
