Fernando Alonso believes “very predictable” Formula 1 is still “too boring” despite the new 2022 regulations.
The hope was and still is, that the introduction of all-new cars combined with the budget cap would allow more teams to fight for wins and podiums.
Instead, only Ferrari and Red Bull have claimed victories so far, while the two Mercedes drivers and Lando Norris are the only others to take home a trophy.
Alonso has had his own notable moments this year, but having been drawn back to F1 by the promise of the new rules, the double world champion admits little has really changed.
“It’s so-so. Unfortunately, Formula 1 is still very predictable,” he told NOS on the success of the 2022 regulations.
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“It’s all about Red Bull and Ferrari. Only Max Verstappen, Charles Leclerc, Carlos Sainz and Sergio Pérez can win. I don’t know of any other sport where it goes like this.
“The GPs have become more fun and with these cars, you can fight better. Still, I think it’s too boring, but it’s also part of F1. There will always be teams that are faster than others.”
Asked if that means his comeback hasn’t met expectations then, Alonso replied: “A little bit. Of course, I miss the fierce podium duels.
“It feels great when I can excel for a while, like in Canada when I started next to Max on the front row. That’s great about this season.
“I can show things that people don’t expect from me anymore. That was always my strength and it makes me proud. It’s what drives me: being a better driver than in 2021. You also race against yourself in this sport.”
Over the coming weeks, Alonso and Alpine are set to decide on their future together, with the expectation being that the Spaniard will stay for 2023.
That means current F2 champion, and Alpine junior, Oscar Piastri is having to look elsewhere to make the step into F1.
But Fernando, who turns 41 later this month, denies he is blocking the Australian’s path onto the grid.
“I see it differently,” Alonso reasoned. “Motorsport is all about the stopwatch. The key question is are you still fast enough and do you make it happen?
“If you are slow and perform moderately, you block the way for up-and-coming talents. Then you have to make room. I’m still fast. It’s other drivers who lock the door for fresh blood.”
