Alonso: I’m in better shape than ever before

Fernando Alonso is optimistic about the French Grand Prix…

Q: Fernando, how do you rate the results of the Austrian Grand Prix?
Fernando Alonso: I am satisfied with my performance. The race turned out to be difficult, but fun. Due to problems before the start of the sprint, I had to start last on Sunday. During the race we changed the tires during the virtual safety car, but I felt an unusual vibration and as a precaution we made another pit stop, which cost me time and seats. In the closing laps I was able to get back to tenth place, but if I didn’t have these difficulties I would be in a good fight for sixth.

The car is fine, it was my most competitive Grand Prix of the season. If the failures don’t repeat, we should earn a lot of points in the next races, starting with France this weekend.

Ask Ahead of your team’s home race. Do you like racing in Paul Ricard?
Fernando Alonso: Performing for French fans is always fun. Half the team is based in France, so it’s good that we have a home race in Paul Ricard.

I’ve driven on several French circuits, but in Formula 1, I’ve only driven in Paul Ricard twice. It’s not easy to find the optimal settings here – many fast sections are followed by slow and medium turns. This year our car is fast on different tracks, I hope it will be the same in Paul Ricard.

Q: You’ve earned points in six races in a row – now only Lewis and Max have better stats. Are you satisfied with your performance?
Fernando Alonso: Very satisfied. I am in top condition and flying better than ever before.

Our biggest problem this year is bad luck at decisive moments. If luck returns, we will earn a lot more points and move up in the individual standings and in the constructors’ championship.