Why it matters: Fernando Alonso's extraordinary driving ability goes beyond mere speed. His capacity to manage tyres, discern grip, and even read race situations while leading by a significant margin highlights why he is regarded as one of F1's all-time greatest. The big picture: Haas F1 Team Principal Ayao Komatsu has shared insights from his time as a tyre engineer with Fernando Alonso at Renault, revealing the unique capabilities that set Alonso apart from other top drivers. The details:
- Unrivaled Tyre Mastery: Komatsu witnessed Alonso's incredibly precise tyre management. Alonso could plan an 18-lap stint, dictate the exact pace for the final three laps, and completely use up the tyre by the pit-in lap—a feat Jenson Button, a respectable F1 driver, couldn't achieve. This demonstrated Alonso's profound understanding of tyre limits and feedback.
- Grip Sensing in Mixed Conditions: At the 2006 Chinese Grand Prix, Alonso made an early, audacious call for slick tyres on a drying track. He possessed the confidence to immediately push the tyres out of the pitlane. In contrast, his teammate Giancarlo Fisichella, pitting later in better conditions, lost significant time due to a more tentative approach.
- Race Awareness "While Bored": During the 2006 Canadian Grand Prix, while leading by a substantial 25 seconds, Alonso famously predicted a Safety Car. He later revealed he was "bored" and watching Jacques Villeneuve's crash on the big screens, immediately informing his team. This anecdote underscores his immense mental bandwidth and race-reading prowess. What's next: Alonso continues to demonstrate his unparalleled experience and skill in F1. Komatsu's recollections serve as a potent reminder of the unique qualities that have allowed Alonso to remain a top competitor for over two decades.