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‘Vertically challenged’ Fernando Alonso branded ‘Napoleon’ for F1 exit tantrums
Former Formula 1 icon David Coulthard has suggested that Fernando Alonso’s ‘Napoleon complex’ has caused him to sever ties within the sport, particularly during his tumultuous season at McLaren in 2007. Alonso’s tenure at McLaren, marred by conflicts with Lewis Hamilton and the ‘spygate’ scandal, led to his return to Renault in 2008, though he did make a comeback at McLaren between 2015-2018. Throughout his F1 career, Alonso’s relationships with teammates, like Esteban Ocon at Alpine, have been strained, which Coulthard attributes to this ‘Napoleon complex’. Coulthard made these comments in an episode of the Red Flags podcast, where he also compared Alonso to Napoleon Bonaparte due to his stature. Alonso has since joined Aston Martin after leaving Alpine, aiming to achieve more podium finishes and potentially vie for victories under the team’s leadership and the guidance of design maestro Adrian Newey. The upcoming season with new regulations could present Alonso with the opportunity to secure his 33rd Grand Prix victory and propel him back to the forefront of Formula 1 competition.
