Ferrari’s Fernando Alonso: 2011 Formula 1 season is a five way battle
Ferrari driver, Fernando Alonso believes that the upcoming 2011 Formula 1 season will see four to five teams in the battle for race-wins alongside Ferrari.
While talking to the media, Alonso stated, “It's not a surprise because I still think there's a significant group made of Red Bull, McLaren, Mercedes, Renault and maybe Williams, who along with us, can aspire to victory in the first
few races.”
The Spaniard, once again stated that the seven-time World Champion, Michael Schumacher, is expected to be the strongest man on the track. After the abortive 2010 season, the driver’s fans expect to see him return to the track stronger
this year.
Although the pre-season test sessions have not demonstrated a strong Mercedes car, yet Alonso believes that a few upgrades in the team’s car can bring forward Schumacher as a strong title contender. He believes that the driver is
not to be underestimated in any condition.
The Ferrari driver further explained, “I think Mercedes has shown it has made a good step forward compared to the start of the tests and can be one of the favourites for Melbourne. It's normal that, with a quick car, Michael should
immediately be competitive.”
However, the true picture regarding the pace of all the team cars will only be visible once the caravan of cars comes head-to-head at the first round of the season, the Australian Grand Prix. So far, Red Bull seems to be the strongest
team, while Ferrari is a close second.
So far, McLaren has not been able to show any great performances. Nevertheless, the 2008 Champion, Lewis Hamilton has dismissed all speculations that the new team car, MP4-26, is not competitive. The Briton stated earlier this week
that in little more time, the upcoming upgrades will allow the team to perform much better.
The initial tests unfolded brilliantly for Ferrari. Both the team drivers, Alonso and Felipe Massa have shown a great form and pace during the tests. The team has already covered considerable mileage and the car seems quite reliable
too.
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