Share

'His moment has come' - David Coulthard explains why Alonso won't return to F1

Although Fernando Alonso wants to return to Formula 1, ex-driver David Coulthard doesn't see where there would be a place for him.

The Spaniard walked away from the sport following the 2018 season – a four-year stint with McLaren failed to bring any podiums for the two-time World Champion and he decided that he wanted to pursue challenges outside of F1.

And that's what he has done, appearing in the World Endurance Championship, Le Mans, Indy500 and Dakar Rally.

But with new regulations coming for 2021, which could shake up the F1 grid, Alonso is eyeing a return.

That being said, Coulthard is struggling to see where he would fit in. Already Red Bull have made it clear that there is no spot for him because he has no ties to their programme, and Honda have washed their hands of him after the infamous "GP2 engine" comment.

'Most talented'

Speaking to AS, as quoted by Insideracing.com, Coulthard said: "I know he wants to come back, but I don't think he has a choice. I don't think Mercedes needs him or wants him. I don't think Ferrari needs him or wants him. I don't think Red Bull needs him or wants him. Where's he going to go? Back to McLaren?"

READ: McLaren closes the door on Fernando Alonso's F1 return

Coulthard made it clear that he rates Alonso as one of the greatest talents F1 has seen, but at the age of 38, maybe he needs to accept that his days at the pinnacle of motorsport are over.

He explained: "For me, Alonso is one of the most talented drivers ever in F1, really talented like (Lewis) Hamilton, (Michael) Schumacher or (Ayrton) Senna. Everything he's driven has been in a hurry, but everyone has their moment and maybe it has come for him."

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()