Source: McLaren Media Centre

F1 News

Alonso backs Sainz to McLaren

Alonso backs Sainz to McLaren

20-08-2018 10:14
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Bobby Vincent

Fernando Alonso backs Carlos Sainz Jr's move to McLaren that will be taking place at the end of the season.

Sainz will be replacing fellow Spaniard, Alonso - following his decision to retire from Formula One that was announced last week.

The current Renault driver will be replacing a legend in Alonso and will have some almighty shoes to fill.

Alonso is happy with his replacement and thinks that his compatriot will do a good job at McLaren.

"Carlos has everything he needs to lead a project like McLaren that we hope will continue by the end of the year," Alonso told Ziggo Sport Total.

"The problems with the car have been identified for some months now even though many of the solutions cannot be applied now because the 2018 design is done.

"But I think in 2019 it could look completely different. I think it could be a better year and Carlos has the experience and ability to lead such a project.

"He is still young and has not been in F1 for many years, but he still has enough experience from Toro Rosso and Renault. That mix could work very well for McLaren."

2009 world champion Jenson Button isn't as sure as Alonso that it's the right move.

"Carlos was performing well at Renault but it's impossible to know if McLaren's a good move for him," Button said.

"With Ricciardo coming to Renault, he didn't have the option to stay so I think it's the right decision. We'll have to see if McLaren improves next year. It will be difficult for them but it's a great team with many world championships. It could take a while but they can find a way to be great again."