Alonso: 'If I had to choose someone, I would say Russell'.

Alonso chooses his favourite driver of the current F1 grid. The two-time world champion will return to F1 next year and estimates the value of his young competition. The Spaniard is particularly impressed by George Russell.

In 2019, three young drivers made their debuts in F1. The top three of the 2018 F2 championship were deservedly promoted to the premier class of single seaters. George Russell, Lando Norris and Alexander Albon, among others, will become competitors of Alonso next year.

Of the young talents, the Spaniard sees the most in Russell. According to Formula1.com he says: "I think there are very talented drivers in F1 at the moment. They have all had good preparation with the junior programmes. They are doing a great job now."

Alonso continues: "Of all the drivers, George Russell surprises me every weekend. How he drives the Williams and makes zero mistakes. I am very surprised by his natural speed. So if I have to choose one name, I will say Russell for the future."

An important point to mention is that Alonso gave this interview befor the Imola race. In that race, the normally almost faultless Russell made a rare mistake. Russell lost control of his car under the safety car, hitting the wall and costing him a great chance of scoring his maiden F1 points.