Why is Fernando Alonso Not Racing This Weekend?
by Kavitha | Updated Nov 25, 2023
Who is Fernando Alonso?
Fernando Alonso, a successful Spanish racing driver, competes for Aston Martin in Formula One. Starting kart racing at age three, he transitioned to car racing at 17, winning the Euro Open by Nissan in 1999 and finishing fourth in the International Formula 3000 Championship in 2000.
Alonso's Formula One journey began with Minardi in 2001, and he made history with Renault, becoming the youngest pole-sitter, race winner, and two-time world champion in 2005 and 2006. He later drove for McLaren, Ferrari, and returned to Renault in 2008-2009. His Ferrari years (2010-2014) brought three runner-up finishes. A second stint with McLaren (2015-2018) didn't yield significant success.
After a two-year break, Alonso returned in 2021 with Alpine, securing his first podium in seven years at the 2021 Qatar Grand Prix. In 2022, he set the record for the most Formula One starts at the Singapore Grand Prix. Moving to Aston Martin in 2023, Alonso achieved early success with six podium finishes in the first eight races.
In his career, Alonso won 32 Grands Prix, earned 22 pole positions, and scored 2261 points in 376 starts. He is the only Spanish driver to have won the Formula One World Championship until Carlos Sainz's 2022 win. Alonso excelled in endurance racing, winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans twice with Toyota. Beyond racing, he engages in esports, runs a junior racing team, and serves as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, earning accolades like the Prince of Asturias Award for Sports.
Full Name
Fernando Alonso Díaz
Date of Birth
29 July 1981
Birthplace
Oviedo, Asturias, Spain
Age
42
Nationality
Spanish
Formula One Debut
2001, with Minardi
Championships
2 (2005, 2006) with Renault
Teams
Minardi, Renault, McLaren, Ferrari, Alpine, Aston Martin
Awards
Prince of Asturias Award for Sports, Gold Medal of the Royal Order of Sports Merit
Net Worth
(2023)
$260 million
Why is Fernando Alonso Not Racing This Weekend?
Fernando Alonso is not racing in the Free Practice 1 of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix because of the FIA regulations. According to these rules, every driver must give up their seat in at least one free practice session to a rookie who has not competed in more than two F1 Grand Prixs in their career.
In this case, Felipe Drugovich, a Brazilian driver and reserve driver at Aston Martin, will be replacing Alonso in the first session. Drugovich has previously been in the car on several occasions and even participated in the pre-season test in place of another Aston Martin driver, Lance Stroll.
Fernando Alonso has completed all the sessions so far this season, and it is mandatory for him to give up his seat to a rookie, as per the FIA regulations. This practice is not uncommon in Formula 1, with teams usually choosing to fulfill this requirement towards the end of the season.
Fernando Alonso Age
Fernando Alonso Díaz was born on 29 July 1981 in Oviedo, Asturias, Spain, making him 42 years old. As of today, he continues to be an active and accomplished racing driver in Formula One. Despite his age, Alonso showcases enduring skill and passion in the world of motorsports.
His extensive career includes notable achievements, such as being a two-time Formula One World Champion and winning prestigious races like the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Alonso's age reflects his seasoned experience, contributing to his status as one of the respected figures in the racing community.
Fernando Alonso Career
Fernando Alonso is a Spanish racing driver who has had a remarkable career in motorsports. Let's break down his journey in simple terms.
Early Years:
Alonso started racing cars at a young age. He won the 1999 Euro Open by Nissan title at just 17, showcasing his talent.
Formula One Beginnings:
In 2001, Alonso entered Formula One with the Minardi team. Despite being in a non-competitive car, he impressed and moved to Renault as a test driver in 2002. In 2003, he broke records by becoming the youngest driver to win a pole position and a race.
Champion with Renault:
Alonso continued with Renault, winning back-to-back World Championships in 2005 and 2006. His skill and consistency made him a force to be reckoned with.
Stint with McLaren and Return to Renault:
Alonso joined McLaren in 2007 but had a tumultuous relationship with the team. He returned to Renault in 2008, achieving notable wins and podiums.
Ferrari Years:
From 2010 to 2014, Alonso drove for Ferrari. Although he didn't win a championship, he was a fierce competitor, often challenging for the title.
Return to McLaren:
Alonso rejoined McLaren in 2015. However, the team faced challenges, and the car's performance was subpar. He stayed with McLaren until 2018, expressing frustration with the sport's predictability.
Alpine Comeback:
In 2021, Alonso made a comeback with Alpine, formerly Renault. He secured podiums and displayed competitiveness.
Aston Martin Move:
In 2023, Alonso joined Aston Martin, achieving a podium in his debut race. His move to the team marked a new phase in his career.
Beyond Formula One:
Apart from Formula One, Alonso explored endurance racing, winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans with Toyota in 2018–2019. He also tried his hand at the IndyCar Series and off-road racing, participating in the Dakar Rally.
In simple terms, Fernando Alonso has been a star in the racing world, winning championships, achieving podiums, and showcasing his skills across various racing disciplines.
Fernando Alonso Net Worth
Fernando Alonso, the renowned Spanish racing driver, boasts a net worth of $260 million, with an annual income of $40 million from earnings and endorsements. Making history in 2005 and 2006 as the youngest Formula One World Champion, Alonso has left an indelible mark on the sport. Beyond his F1 exploits, he's excelled in endurance racing, securing victories in prestigious events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Alonso's business ventures include partnerships with brands such as Adidas, Chandon, and Kimoa, a fashion retailer he founded. As a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, he actively engages in campaigns against disease and cyberbullying. In 2023, Alonso's car collection, featuring a rare Ferrari Enzo, gained attention, further contributing to his multifaceted wealth.
Why is Fernando Alonso Not Racing This Weekend - FAQs
Alonso has raced for Minardi, Renault, McLaren, Ferrari, Alpine, and currently competes for Aston Martin.
Fernando Alonso has won two Formula One World Championships in 2005 and 2006 with Renault.
Fernando Alonso's net worth is $260 million, with an annual income of $40 million from earnings and endorsements.
Alonso is not participating in Free Practice 1 due to FIA regulations requiring every driver to give up their seat to a rookie during at least one practice session.
Apart from Formula One, Alonso has excelled in endurance racing, winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans twice. He also participated in the IndyCar Series and off-road racing, including the Dakar Rally.