Fernando Alonso has underscored the pivotal role of visibility as rain threatens to disrupt the season-opening Australian Grand Prix at the Albert Park Circuit. Scheduled for March 16, 2025, the race has already sparked concern among drivers, particularly Alonso, who qualified 12th for Aston Martin and aims to score points.
"I think the biggest question is the visibility," the 43-year-old two-time F1 champion told media outlets, including RacingNews365. "If the visibility is okay, I think the race could be fun if it rains. But Melbourne is not straight; it’s always some kind of corner, between Turns six to nine, so it could be tricky in terms of visibility. It’s not good. It’s not fun when you drive and you can’t see."
The Aston Martin driver emphasized preparedness, stating they are ready for any challenge the weather may bring but expressed concerns about the resurfaced asphalt at Albert Park. He likened the track to a mirror, explaining how its smooth surface could exacerbate slippery conditions if wet. "It is very unique tarmac," he noted. "When it’s so slippery and smooth, it becomes like a mirror and the water stays there for very long.”
Alonso, facing the pressure of competition and rain's unpredictability, also reflected on the additional difficulties it poses for the league's rookies. Many have never driven F1 cars under such conditions, making the race even more unforgiving for those still refining their craft. “I prefer to be on the experienced side than the blind side of experience,” he acknowledged. "But the rookies are fast, they are very talented, they are well-prepared. So they are tough to beat."
Despite the rain forecast and his less-than-ideal qualification position, Alonso remains optimistic about his car's performance. He noted some issues during qualifying. "I went wide at Turn 10, damaging the floor, and it cost me performance during my final run," he stated.
Although Alonso did sustain damage his AMR25, he remarked, "I think this morning it was weird. We experimented with the set-up. It didn’t work; I was P18. We reverted to yesterday’s set-up, and during qualifying, the car was fast. We need to improve and raise our level to avoid mistakes like today because it could be costly."
The poor conditions anticipated for the race on Sunday set the stage for high stakes. “We are not fighting for the top five or anything like it,” Alonso admitted, qualifying P12 only two positions away from scoring points, his primary target for the weekend.
Alonso's unconventional approach to the media has also sparked notable reactions, particularly during and after practice sessions. When questioned on what data he had gleaned during FP2, he firmly stated, "Nothing, and if I learn something, I will not tell you," reinforcing his intent to keep strategies under wraps. After venting his frustrations over the realization of mandatory reporting obligations, he acknowledged the work done: "We just jump out of the car and as usual." His humor did not go unnoticed, adding levity during tensions surrounding team performance.
Team ambassador Pedro de la Rosa commented on Aston Martin’s transitional phase and the focus on developing new technologies under Adrian Newey for the upcoming 2026 regulations. “We have four strong teams, and the midfield remains highly competitive,” de la Rosa explained, underlining the challenges Alonso faces as the team fine-tunes its strategy for the season.
Alonso’s name has become synonymous with F1's adaptability and resilience, reinforcing his position as both mentor and competitor. His commitment to supporting young talent like Gabriel Bortoleto, who faced remarks from Red Bull advisor Dr. Helmut Marko, showcases his continued investment in the future of the sport. Alonso pointedly remarked, “Look at last year’s Formula 2 season. Bortoleto and Hadjar finished first and second. They are both incredibly talented.”
While the weather and competition set the scene for uncertainty, Alonso remains focused. Looking forward to the start of what will undoubtedly be another exhilarating season, Alonso reflected, “The conditions apply to everyone; we aim to score points from P12, and that's the target.”
Race day awaits, promising thrills, challenges, and the ever-present unpredictability of Formula 1.