F1 champion issues health update in emotional st...

F1 champion issues health update in emotional st…read more

Two-time Formula 1 world champion Fernando Alonso provided an update on his health after enduring a grueling weekend at the Brazilian Grand Prix. The 43-year-old driver had already been ill for the second consecutive race weekend, forcing him to skip media day on Thursday. Nonetheless, Alonso recovered enough to participate in the sole practice session on Friday, followed by the sprint qualifying session later that day.

The weekend proved challenging, with Alonso unable to capitalize on what appeared to be strong pace from his Aston Martin team. He faced a setback in qualifying, crashing out in a disappointing session. In the subsequent races, Alonso finished 14th in the sprint race and 18th in the main event, marking another weekend without points.

Following the race, Alonso expressed his gratitude toward his team, particularly the mechanics, who worked tirelessly to get his car ready after his struggles in qualifying. Despite the challenging circumstances, he pushed through the 69-lap race, determined to finish it for his team. Over the team radio, Alonso could be heard commenting on the physical toll he was experiencing, telling his team, “I will finish the race for the mechanics. They did a very good job today. But my back is hurting, man. This bouncing is not normal.” The Spaniard noted the extreme discomfort caused by the intense bouncing on the newly resurfaced Interlagos track, a condition that seemed to impact both him and teammate Lance Stroll. Stroll’s difficulties were even more severe, as he crashed before the race began on the formation lap.

After crossing the finish line, Alonso was seen needing assistance to exit his car, visibly in pain from the effects of the race. He later explained that the resurfaced track’s harsh conditions had strained his back, contributing to a painful experience that he fought through to complete the race. Alonso, who currently holds ninth place in the drivers’ championship, has faced a challenging 2024 season without a single podium finish, a stark contrast to his eight podiums in 2023.

Appearing emotional when speaking with Spanish media, Alonso reflected not only on his physical struggle but also on recent tragedies in his homeland, including devastating floods that have affected many families. His expression of sympathy for his fellow Spaniards showed a side of the driver beyond the track, adding a poignant note to a difficult weekend. Despite the setbacks, Alonso remains resolute, determined to finish the season strongly while acknowledging the toll that recent races have taken on his health and morale.