Verstappen/Hamilton expect a lot from Alonso: 'But podium not the target'

Fernando Alonso swapped Alpine for Aston Martin this winter, a decision that caused frowns among many a Formula 1 fan. During winter testing, however, it became clear why the two-time world champion fell for Aston Martin's project. The AMR23 looks very competitive, although Alonso does not want to think about a podium finish in Bahrain just yet.

Aston Martin in Bahrain

Max Verstappen stated to this website on Thursday that Alonso's smile reveals a lot and Lewis Hamilton also hinted that he expects a lot from Aston Martin: "They are, as far as we know, fully in the fight. It looks like they are very, very strong," said the Mercedes driver.

Alonso spoke to Sky Sports slightly more conservatively ahead of the free practice sessions. "We will give our best in the race, but that (a podium finish) is not the target for us, to be honest." The experienced Spaniard points out that he has only been able to drive a "completely new car" for two days.

"The top three teams were in another league last year, they were sometimes even lapping the fourth team, and basically only seven cars finish on the same lap. So we cannot make that kind of a step only in one winter," said Alonso, who does welcome the 2023 car. "But we have to keep both feet on the ground and keep working on this good base."