Alonso felt sorry for fans: 'I always prefer the dry weather'

Fernando Alonso could look back on a positive first day in Japan. The Spaniard immediately managed to put the fastest time on the board in the first free practice session, while a few hours later he was good for seventh place. Speaking to Sky Sports, however, he reveals that he is far from there yet.

The Formula 1 drivers faced heavy rain in the first session on Friday, which meant most teams did not dare to take much risk on track. Alonso only came out for seven laps in the first practice session, but did manage to grab the fastest time in it with a time of 1:42:248.

"The car felt good in both sessions for us today," Alonso revealed. "It was nice to be in first position at the end of Free Practice 1. I’m excited for tomorrow and let’s see what we can do in potentially dry conditions."

Alonso hands out compliments to fans

However, the two-time world champion, who will drive for Aston Martin in 2023, felt sorry for the spectators present at the Japanese circuit to admire the drivers. The fans sat under umbrellas for the entire session, giving Alonso great respect for them.

"It was a good day for us and it’s great to be back in Suzuka. Although the rain doesn’t help our preparations, I felt sorry for the fans who stayed out in this weather all day long. I always prefer the dry weather if I’m honest."