Bahrain GP F1 Podium Makes Fernando Alonso So Emotional
JAKARTA - Aston Martin racer, Fernando Alonso, admitted that he was quite emotional after successfully securing the podium at the Bahrain Formula One (F1) Grand Prix. In the race on Sunday, March 5, Alonso took third place behind the Red Bull Racing duet, Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez.
"I had the same feeling from the moment of testing, like it was too good to be true (standing on the podium). I had thought about taking a step back and returning to reality, but this moment turned out to be real," said Alonso, quoted from the official F1 website, Monday, March 6.
Alonso's emotional feelings seem natural. The reason is, in the F1 event this season, Alonso and Aston Martin are not the favorites. There is still Charles Leclerc from Ferrari, to Lewis Hamilton who represents Mercedes.
However, Alonso, who has years of experience on the track, has proven he still deserves to be one of the fastest. Even he thought he could appear so competitive.
The 41-year-old racer opened the 2023 season with a stunning performance in the test and practice sessions at the Bahrain International Circuit. This consistent performance then led him to stand on the highest podium with Verstappen and Sergio Perez.
"It's the perfect start to the season. We didn't expect it to be that competitive. I think the goal in 2023 is to blend into the midfield, or maybe lead the midfield, and eventually get close to the top three," he said.
"Even the podium was not on our radar, and instead we had the second best car all week. This is a bit of a surprise, but we are very proud, pleased with the work that is being done at the Silverstone factory.
"Congratulations to everyone. Let's enjoy this moment and bounce back. Hopefully 2023 is a good moment, and closer to the top people," continued the former Ferrari driver.
The podium, which has been won twice as a world champion, is also the second podium for Aston Martin in their 50 starts in F1. Another podium was won by Sebastian Vettel, who finished second in Baku in 2021.