Alonso sees similarities with Verstappen: 'We are seen as the bad guys'

The title fight between Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton is not only discussed by the fans, but also by the drivers. Fernando Alonso has indicated at de Telegraaf that he has respect for both drivers, but that he sees similarities between him and the Dutchman.

Alonso began his career in 2001 with Minardi and in 2018 he left the sport after driving for three years with McLaren Honda. This year, he returned to the Formula One grid after a few years that included driving in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. He is happy to be back on the grid now, especially as he is witnessing a historic title fight.

"I respect enormously what both Max and Lewis are performing. They are at their top level every weekend. Whether it's wet, dry or very windy. The way Max stepped in at Red Bull and was right there, I don't think anyone is capable of doing that," said the Spaniard.

Similarities between the two

Both Alonso and Verstappen are people who say what they think. Alonso also sees the similarities between him and the Dutchman, especially since they are both seen as the bad guys.

"We don't come from a British environment. That's why, for example in a title fight, we have it much harder. Look around you in Formula 1, the majority comes from England. Then as a challenger you are automatically the bad guy. Do you remember what they said about Max? That he was a rebel and he didn't respect the rules. And that he always crossed the line. While often it was not, but that was purely because he is not British. I went through exactly the same thing. There are a lot of similarities."