Alonso Hints at Adopting 'Take Advantage' Strategy After FIA Radio Request

Fernando Alonso expressed frustration after the Mexican Grand Prix over rivals cutting corners without penalty, jokingly asking the FIA if he could do the same. With no action taken against competitors, Alonso suggested he might 'take advantage' of similar situations in the future, implying a shift in strategy if track limits are not consistently enforced.

Why it matters:

Alonso's comments highlight a recurring debate in Formula 1 regarding track limits and consistent stewarding. Inconsistent application of rules can lead to driver frustration and potentially influence future race strategies, as drivers might push boundaries if they perceive a lack of enforcement, impacting fairness and the integrity of competition.

The Details:

• Initial Frustration: Alonso had a strong start but quickly observed rivals, including Carlos Sainz and Liam Lawson, cutting Turn 2. They rejoined the track ahead of him, with Lawson later retiring due to collision damage.
• Team Radio Exchange: Alonso initially radioed to point out the unfairness, stating, "I mean, it’s very unfair that I’m in this position, after making the corners." The stewards did not penalize any Turn 1 incidents.
• Sarcastic Inquiry: Later in the race, Alonso, still frustrated by the lack of penalties, sarcastically asked race control, "Question for the race direction, can I cut the Turn 2 and 3, and pass like they do? Or, I stay on track better?"
• Post-Race Remarks: Speaking with DAZN, Alonso reiterated his view that rivals gained positions by cutting the circuit, a situation he believes the FIA overlooked. He compared it to Austin, where similar incidents occurred.
• Permitted vs. Unpermitted Cutting: Alonso clarified that taking an escape route to avoid contact is permissible, but "going flat-out and gaining three or four positions" is not, and usually requires giving positions back. He noted the FIA's decision not to enforce this in Mexico.

What's next:

Alonso's suggestion to "take advantage" in future similar situations underscores a potential shift in driver behavior if stewarding remains inconsistent. This could lead to more aggressive driving at track limits in subsequent races, potentially forcing the FIA to re-evaluate its enforcement guidelines or risk further complaints about fairness.