Spanish GP – Alonso and his Spanish kingdom!

Fernando Alonso is back home in Spain for the first of two races that will take place on Spanish soil in the 2008 season. It’s an opportunity for him to shine a bit more than in his last three races. Bahrain was the worst as he finished outside the top 8.

With the changes made to the R28, particularly in terms of aerodynamics, the potential is growing, especially after rather successful testing. Indeed, on the third day, Alonso set the fastest time to take the lead in this session. Good signs ahead of Friday’s testing…

Fernando, Bahrain was a difficult race for you and the team. What assessment did you make of it?

« The race was difficult, yes, but we had prepared for it. Our qualification was a pleasant surprise, but we knew that our race pace wouldn’t allow us to aim for much better than a tenth place. We didn’t manage to score points, unlike in the first two races. We were lacking speed at the start of the season, and that’s what we hope to have fixed with the latest updates we’ve been able to implement. I know the team is doing everything to improve as quickly as possible. On my part, they know I won’t give up during the race, and I’ll continue to do so this weekend. »

You are preparing to compete in your national Grand Prix. Is it a special feeling for you?

« It is, of course, a very strong feeling. I have unparalleled support here, which is naturally very motivating. Some see it as a form of pressure, but I don’t. It tends to over-motivate me, making me want to surpass myself even more. I hope to be able to offer the Spanish public a great show. And with two Grand Prix in Spain this year, I am spoiled!

The return to Europe always comes with developments, new packages. The team has worked hard to provide you with a more efficient package. Have you indeed noticed any improvements?

« After the first three Grand Prix races, it was clear that we were not on the same level as the best teams. We lacked speed, the car was sometimes unstable in fast corners and under braking. The team made significant efforts to propose improvements both aerodynamically and mechanically. We worked on the track in Barcelona last week, and the initial results were encouraging. It remains to be seen now how our competitors will have progressed as well. »

What can you expect from this Spanish Grand Prix?

« I think once again it will be a very competitive race. All teams and drivers know this circuit like the back of their hand, so it’s impossible to make a difference at this level. I hope our work will eventually pay off and our car will allow us to climb back up the field. It will probably not be easy. Qualifying will once again be crucial; we will need to position ourselves well and then try to make the most of it to score as many points as possible. »

According to the Renault F1 Team