Alonso sets out to conquer the Great North!

Many observers may say that Renault is improving race by race, but the French team lags behind. The Monaco Grand Prix is an example…

Fernando Alonso had the keys in hand to leave this race with his head held high and, above all, invigorated after a start to the season lacking in flair. However, the Spaniard made rookie mistakes and ultimately failed to score points.

Renault is now focusing on the present moment with the Canadian weekend. The team has indeed worked tirelessly, particularly with tests at the Paul Ricard circuit, in an attempt to shine.

Fernando, the team spoke of a missed opportunity in Monaco. What assessment have you made of this race now that we have passed a third of the season?

« We did not manage to achieve what we could have aspired to in normal race conditions. It’s necessarily frustrating. Since we cannot fight for the championship, we must try everything to shine, even if it means making risky choices. In Monaco, it didn’t pay off, and now I’m eager to race this weekend and see what we can aim for on this very different Montreal track.

Canada is generally a highly appreciated venue for teams. Is it a circuit you like?

« Yes, there is always a very good atmosphere in Canada. The whole city is decked out in the colors of the Grand Prix and you can really feel that Canadians love motor sports, especially F1. It is therefore always a very nice race. On the sporting side, I won this Grand Prix in 2006, so I have fond memories of it. I am convinced that this year again it will be an interesting event. »

The Montreal circuit is very demanding on the brakes. Is this an aspect you will need to work on upon your arrival at the Gilles Villeneuve circuit?

« Undeniably. Particular attention must be paid to their cooling because managing them during the race can be very important. But I have no concerns in this regard, I believe the R28 should perform well. We will work in this direction from the first runs on Friday. »

Low aerodynamic downforce is essential in Canada. Do you think the car will perform well in this configuration?

« There should, in principle, be no contraindication, in any case! The team has been preparing for this race for several weeks now, including a testing session at Paul Ricard. We have recently made some interesting progress and we are trying to keep moving forward as much as possible. As seems to have been the case since the Spanish Grand Prix, we should be on pace in Canada as well, we will do everything possible in any case! »

According to a statement from Renault F1