P1racenews AI automatic summary:
It’s 25 years since Fernando Alonso was first announced as an F1 driver – a quarter of a century!
A quarter of a century ago, Spain struggled to produce a successful Formula 1 driver despite hosting races since the 1950s. Before 2001, only one podium finish had been achieved by a Spanish driver in 663 grands prix. However, Fernando Alonso from Oviedo caught the attention, debuting in F1 in March 2001 with Minardi. Despite a challenging start in a backmarker car, Alonso’s potential was evident and he quickly rose through the ranks under the management of Flavio Briatore.
Alonso’s breakthrough came in 2003 when he became a pole-sitter and the youngest race winner in Hungary, setting the stage for two consecutive titles. Fast forward to today, Alonso holds the record for most grand prix starts at 425 and is still competing in F1. He is expected to reach 449 starts by the end of the 2026 season and is eagerly awaiting the opportunity to drive an Adrian Newey-designed car. Alonso’s remarkable career continues to defy expectations, showcasing his enduring talent and passion for the sport.
