P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Fernando Alonso endured a successful first season with Aston Martin but admitted that the Silverstone-based squad was not ready to compete against the top outfits.
Fernando Alonso suggested that Aston Martin was not prepared to compete with the top Formula 1 teams after a decline in performance during the past season. Despite a strong start with six podium finishes in the first eight races, Aston Martin fell behind the competition and finished fifth in the standings. Alonso, however, sees the campaign as a positive experience and part of the team’s journey. He mentioned that the car was unexpectedly competitive, but they were not ready to fight against teams like Mercedes and Ferrari. Alonso believes that although they struggled and stepped back in terms of development, it was unthinkable a year ago to be in the position they are in today. Overall, he considered it one of his best seasons in F1, mentioning performances in difficult conditions and listed his top five events, including a race where he finished ninth but achieved a good result considering their slow car.
