F1 News: FIA President Champions Fernando Alonso Despite "Angry" Phone Calls
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem shared that he often receives "angry" calls from two-time F1 world champion, Fernando Alonso.
Key Takeaways:
- Fernando Alonso, despite his periodic breaks from Formula 1, remains an iconic figure in the sport
- Ben Sulayem, while recognising Alonso's spirited reactions, values the driver's insightful feedback, applauding him as an intelligent champion beneficial for F1.
- Alonso's recent frustrations were evident after a challenging United States Grand Prix Friday, wherein he qualified at the 17th position.
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Mohammed Ben Sulayem, in a conversation with Spanish media outlet AS, effusively praised Alonso's exemplary career and his influence on budding racers. “Fernando is a true example for young drivers,” he said. “He was in Formula 1, he left, he came back and he is as strong as ever. That is very complicated, F1 is extreme.”
The FIA president further elaborated on Alonso's intellectual approach to the sport, differentiating him from other champions. "He’s not just a champion, he’s smart. I’m not saying that others aren’t but Fernando is a truly intelligent champion, good for the sport,” Ben Sulayem remarked.
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Ben Sulayem also shed light on Alonso's fiery temperament when things don't go his way:
“When he gets angry, he calls me: ‘Boss! President!’. And he says some swear words. But we are drivers and I understand the frustration of drivers. He is really good at this sport, he talks, he has good ideas and he brings enormous value to the sport.
"Aside from his speed and the improvement he brings to the team, he is undeniable."
At 42, Alonso stands as the eldest driver in the current F1 lineup, yet his enthusiasm and dedication remain unflagging.
