Fernando Alonso has stated that his compatriot, four-time IndyCar champion Alex Palou, possesses "Formula 1 level" talent, although he noted that Palou's success in the series would largely depend on the car he drives, should he ever make the switch.
Why it matters:
Alex Palou's exceptional dominance in IndyCar has frequently sparked speculation about his potential move to Formula 1. An endorsement from a two-time F1 World Champion like Fernando Alonso adds significant weight to these discussions, highlighting Palou's recognized talent.
The big picture:
Palou has been a force in IndyCar, securing four titles in the last five seasons and winning the prestigious Indianapolis 500. This impressive track record naturally leads to questions about whether his skills would translate to F1. However, recent rumors linking the 28-year-old Spaniard to a Red Bull seat were swiftly denied by Palou, his management, and Red Bull senior advisor Helmut Marko, putting a temporary halt to the speculation.
The details:
- Palou's perspective: Despite the F1 buzz, Palou himself maintains that he doesn't feel he's "missing out on anything" by staying in IndyCar, given his success there.
- Alonso's assessment: When asked about Palou's potential adaptation to F1 as a rookie, Alonso emphasized Palou's inherent talent. "He has the talent, and he has the level to adapt very quickly," Alonso commented.
- Car dependency: Alonso stressed that a driver's perceived performance often hinges on their equipment. "Ultimately, it will depend on which car you have. If you are at the back of the grid, it seems that you are not adapting... If you are in a fast car, everything is a little bit easier," he explained, reiterating his belief that Palou is "Formula 1 level."
- Playful advice: When asked what advice he'd give Palou if he were his manager, Alonso, who manages other drivers, humorously remarked: "If they want advice, my email is always open."
What's next:
While the Red Bull rumors have been put to rest, the conversation around Alex Palou's F1 potential is likely to continue as long as he maintains his high level of performance in IndyCar. The support from a respected figure like Fernando Alonso ensures that Palou remains on the radar of F1 observers.