Aston Martin Reveals Gravel Caused Alonso's Monza Suspension Failure

Aston Martin Reveals Gravel Caused Alonso's Monza Suspension Failure

Why it matters: Fernando Alonso's unexpected retirement from the Italian Grand Prix was not from a kerb impact, but an undetected first-lap gravel strike. This reveal underscores the unforgiving nature of F1 and adds to Alonso's frustrating season, impacting Aston Martin's championship standing.

The big picture: Post-race investigations found that gravel debris, kicked up during Monza's chaotic opening lap, damaged the right rear suspension of Alonso's AMR25. This hidden compromise led to a catastrophic failure on Lap 24, forcing his retirement.

The details:

• Alonso made an early climb to sixth position before settling into eighth.
• On Lap 24, his AMR25's right rear pushrod failed, ending his race.
• Initial team suspicions focused on an impact with the Ascari kerb.
• However, analysis revealed gravel impacts to multiple areas, including the suspension.
• Aston Martin stated: "The team can confirm some gravel hit Fernando’s car in the first lap of the race in multiple areas, including his suspension, which compromised it. The team were unaware of the damage sustained. Low-level, continuous loading caused the eventual failure of the part."

Impact & driver reaction:

• The DNF worsened Alonso's challenging season, currently 12th in the drivers' championship.
• He expressed frustration: "It’s frustrating that I should have maybe 20-30 points more than what I have – not down to me – but it’s the way it is. Unfortunately, I’m getting used to it.”
• The incident also impacted Aston Martin's Constructors' fight, as Williams extended their lead to 24 points after Alex Albon's Monza finish.