Biggest surprise in 2023 according to Palmer: 'Fairytale return'

According to regular Formula 1 analyst Jolyon Palmer, the biggest surprise of the 2023 Formula 1 season was constructor Aston Martin. Especially in the first weeks of the season, Fernando Alonso's podium finishes were almost a regular occurrence. After that, the green car found it increasingly difficult to tap the speeds of teams like Ferrari, Mercedes and McLaren. Still, the team of Alonso and Lance Stroll is the big surprise of 2023, according to Palmer.

"This was another huge feel good story of the year and a great storyline throughout the season. Who saw Fernando Alonso returning to the front with such consistency, for the first time in 10 years, coming? It was a brilliant achievement for Aston Martin to unleash such a weapon of a car in Bahrain and they managed to lure over just the driver to extract the very best from it. Alonso’s driving style suited the traction-strong car as well and he showed he’s still at the top of his game, even at 42," the 32-year-old analyst explained to Formula1.com.

Victory for Alonso may come according to Palmer

"The only thing missing from this fairytale return was that elusive 33rd victory, and it was oh so close. The team tailing off later in the year could be cause for concern, but if they can have a strong winter once again, a Fernando win could be possible in 2024."

If it is up to Luxembourg team boss Mike Krack, there is enough quality in the Formula 1 team for season '24. Recently, he briefly touched on the strengths of Alonso and teammate Stroll.