Alonso delivers clear message: 'Time for excuses is over'

Fernando Alonso returned to Formula 1 last season in a promising way. The Spaniard left an excellent impression and made sure that Esteban Ocon could make big steps in his development. Next year Alonso expects more from Alpine.

The two-time world champion is used to driving for podiums in his career, but that was a different story last season. The team finished fifth in the constructors' championship, where the French stable seemingly belonged. In 2022, however, Alonso wants to move closer to the top teams.

It certainly seems possible for Alpine to change the proportions of the teams. This season all the teams will have to deal with new regulations, so it is not certain that Red Bull Racing and Mercedes will be able to produce another great season.

Alonso lowers expectations for 2022

With all the experience Alonso brings, Alpine is hoping to take advantage, although the driver is keeping it in the bag for now. "Nobody knows. There is only hope that it will be enough," he revealed in an interview with Auto, Motor und Sport. "We have the right people, the necessary budget, enough resources and the support from the executive suite. It's now up to us to make something of it. The time for excuses is over."