Fernando Alonso We need to increase the lead over McLaren

In the final round in Suzuka, Alpine had the best result of the season, with 18 points. Team rider Fernando Alonso is looking forward to an equally successful performance in Austin this weekend.

Q: How do you rate the results of the weekend in Japan?
Fernando Alonso: All weekend in Japan we had a good pace on the wet and dry track. On Sunday, bad weather turned the race into a sprint of less than an hour. It was important to start the race because of the fans, who were patiently waiting in the stands in the rain.

I think we missed the opportunity to do better – I finished in the same position where I started – seventh, but the conditions were very difficult. We hope to consolidate our fourth position in the Constructors’ Championship by increasing the lead over McLaren.

Q: What do you expect from the race weekend in Austin?
Fernando Alonso: Austin has a good job. There are opportunities to overtake and exciting races are usually held. I have always enjoyed coming to America. This year we have already been to Miami and next season we are waiting for three Grands Prix in the States at the same time.

Austin has an interesting combination of straights and turns, but there are also some bumps. The first sector is exciting, but difficult. The fans in the stands in Austin are true fans of motorsport, so we are waiting for a great atmosphere.

Q: What makes your visit to the US special?
Fernando Alonso: I’ve raced a lot in the US in Formula 1 and IndyCar. I like sports competitions in America. It is very interesting to see live how broadcasts are organized in the US. This is a whole entertainment show with concerts and celebrities.

I have attended an NBA game in the past and would love to go to other leagues if I had time. It’s nice that there are more and more races in America, because it’s always interesting to race here.