Fernando Alonso delivered a stellar drive at the Dutch Grand Prix, climbing from 18th on the grid to ninth at the flag. Yet, the two-time champion’s post-race verdict was far from celebratory. While he praised the team’s new chassis, he admitted the updated Honda power unit remains the car’s weakest link.
Speaking to AS, Alonso revealed that the latest engine upgrade has, in his words, sent the team “back to square one.” “We don’t have that handling, that gear-shifting feel. Everything we’d improved with the first engine, we’ve gone back a bit to square one with this second one,” he said. The Spaniard estimated that it would take two to three races to fully optimize the new unit.
Optimization Takes Time
Despite the setback, Alonso remains confident in the team’s direction. “We have a clear direction now; it’s a matter of optimizing and working flat out on this package,” he stated. However, he is realistic about the challenges ahead, particularly at power-sensitive tracks like Monza. “Monza is going to be one of the worst, and there’ll be no chance of scoring points, but we’ll try to improve this aspect of the handling,” he added.
Alonso’s P9 finish was a morale booster for the entire Aston Martin squad. “Everyone is really motivated now. This result also means both factories will have everyone clocking in at eight o’clock tomorrow, because everyone wants more,” he explained. The points finish also made Alonso the only driver other than Graham Hill to score a championship point after turning 45.
With the chassis now performing well, the focus shifts to unlocking the full potential of the Honda power unit. If the team can do that, the second half of the season could hold plenty of promise for the Silverstone-based outfit.
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