Red Bull warned by Alonso: 'Ferrari are going to be fast in China'

While Formula 1 enjoyed a few days off, the spotlight was fully on Fernando Alonso. The Spaniard (42) extended his contract with Aston Martin, the team with which he hopes to win his third Formula 1 world title. For now, Alonso is awaiting another Grand Prix win first. There may be opportunities in China next weekend, he believes.

This is because in Shanghai - where Formula 1 has not been for five years - there is relatively little time to find the right set-up for the F1 cars. There is a sprint race in China, so there is only one free practice. "Yes, I think always it gives us a little bit more of an opportunity when you have a little bit of deficit on the pace," Alonso stated ahead of the race.

"Mixed conditions or sprint weekend, all these kind of things always give you something extra. But it's going to be tough. I think China, with these long corners, front limited circuit, maybe like Australia, I expect Ferrari to be very fast. But also Red Bull. We have a very powerful DRS. And maybe that helps in the long China straight. So let's see," Alonso said.

Asked how Alonso comes to the conclusion that Ferrari are going to be out in front in China, the Spaniard responded: "I drive the car on track. I see it."