P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Alonso: Aston Martin F1 upgrades provided "unexpected" pace in Japan qualifying
“The Spaniard started Q1 as the second fastest but dropped to fifth in Q2 and Q3 as the pace intensified, despite feeling a significant performance boost from Aston’s car updates. Alonso used the previous AMR24 package during Friday practice at Suzuka, while Stroll tested the new upgrades for comparison before switching to them. In qualifying, Alonso expressed surprise at the competitiveness of the new package, acknowledging the unexpected improvement that brought them closer to the front runners, compared to the previous season. However, Alonso remains cautious about maintaining fifth place in the race and expects strong competition from McLaren, Mercedes, and Ferrari drivers starting behind him. He highlighted the team’s trend of stronger performances in qualifying than the race, emphasizing the need to maximize their position despite potential challenges during the grand prix. Alonso remains optimistic and open to whatever challenges or opportunities the race day may bring, acknowledging the significant gap in race pace compared to qualifying, where Red Bull continues to show dominance.”
