Alonso happy with front row start: “(It) is just amazing”

Fernando Alonso looked to be in contention for pole position in Jeddah, especially after Max Verstappen’s early retirement, but it wasn’t meant to be for the two-time champion. While he was unable to take his 23rd pole position, he finished 3rd, and is looking to start from the first row following Leclerc’s grid penalty.

The one to challenge the Red Bulls

With Leclerc’s penalty in mind, Alonso looked like the driver to challenge Verstappen and Perez following the practice sessions, and the Spanish driver was happy with his car today in his post-qualifying interview.

He said: "It has been a very good weekend for us. Qualifying was our weak point in Bahrain but today the car seemed to perform very well over one lap. Let's see tomorrow what we can do. We will start on the first row of the grid which is just amazing.”

Alonso also looked ahead for the race tomorrow, where he fancies his and Aston Martin’s chances for a strong showing.

"We are confident. The long run yesterday was affected by traffic. The car felt very strong, I think it is the strongest point of the car and how we treat the car. Should be better on Sundays than Saturdays. Starting on the front row feels very good," he added.

As a result, just like in the Canadian GP last year, Alonso will have the chance to lead the race following a similar first two turns.