Alonso identifies driver to watch in 2019: "His story is incredible"

He might not be in Formula 1 anymore, but Fernando Alonso will be keeping a close eye on the sport nonetheless, and especially on the development of Robert Kubica, who will be the one to watch according to Alonso.

It will be the first time since 2000 that F1 won't feature Alonso, who won two titles in the sport in 2005 and 2006 with Renault. He's regarded as one of the quickest drivers of his generation, as the Asturian doesn't rule out a potential comeback to F1 in the future.

For now, though, he will watch from the sidelines.

"Robert Kubica," Alonso responded to Corriere della Sera when asked who his driver to watch will be in 2019.

"His story is unbelievable. Up until a few months ago it looked like he had no chance of racing. He will drive like he has nothing to lose because that is the case."

The other driver the two-time champion will watch is the young Monegasque Charles Leclerc, who will make his debut for Ferrari in 2019.

"Then there is Charles Leclerc at Ferrari. He's young and he has the talent. I have a feeling this could be the last year of Mercedes' dominance. I can only advise Leclerc that the championship gets decided in the last few races of the season. Don't be too rushed and try to keep things under control. Start slowly, score points and help the team."

A good piece of advice from a man who has seen it all.