P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Fernando Alonso says the Sprint format is showing it is “better not to race” on a Saturday due to the impact on tire usage and the penalty points he received at the Chinese Grand Prix. The stewards…
Fernando Alonso expressed his frustration with the Sprint format, stating that it might be better not to race on a Saturday due to tire usage and penalty points he received in the Chinese Grand Prix. The penalty points, given for a collision with Carlos Sainz during the Sprint, left him facing a potential race ban, which he deemed harsh. Alonso believes not participating in the Sprint could have led to a better race strategy on Sunday and preserved a set of tires for the main race. Despite the challenges, Alonso managed to make a remarkable comeback to finish seventh in the Chinese Grand Prix, overtaking competitors like Oscar Piastri and Lewis Hamilton in the final stint. He described his performance as a “miracle” and emphasized the enjoyment he experienced during the race, especially when all cars were on an equal footing at the start.
