by Kiera Rockley
My journey into the world of racing was ignited by two significant influences: a childhood fascination with the animated film ‘Cars’ and more recently the Netflix series ‘Drive to Survive’. However, it was Fernando Alonso, the two-time Formula 1 World Champion, who truly solidified my passion for motorsports.
As a child, ‘Cars’ introduced me to the excitement of racing. The vibrant characters and high-speed adventures captured my imagination, fostering a love for fast cars and the world of racing. The movie's protagonist, Lightning McQueen, became a childhood hero, embodying the spirit of competition and the thrill of the race.
📸 The ‘Cars’ movie is popular with many racing fans.
Years later, my interest in racing was reignited when I discovered ‘Drive to Survive’. This docuseries offered a behind-the-scenes look at the world of Formula 1, bringing the drivers, teams, and intense rivalries to life. Among the many drivers featured, Fernando Alonso stood out to me. His tenacity, skill, and charisma on and off the track were captivating. Alonso's return to Formula 1 in 2021, after a brief hiatus, showcased his unwavering determination and love for the sport.
📸 Alonso(middle) signed off in style at the end of 2018 before a return in 2021.
Alonso's career is nothing short of legendary. With two World Championships under his belt, he has consistently demonstrated his exceptional talent and adaptability across different teams and racing disciplines. His ability to extract performance from his car, coupled with his strategic acumen, makes him one of the most respected and admired figures in motorsports.
Watching Alonso navigate the challenges of the modern F1 landscape, deepened my appreciation for the sport. His resilience and passion for racing, even in the face of adversity, inspired me to follow Formula 1 more closely and learn about the intricacies of the sport.
📸 Through the years Fernando Alonso has seen it all, title wins, titles lost, retirements and…GP2 engines?
Alonso's influence extended beyond just his on-track performance; it was his character and approach to racing that resonated with me.
In many ways, Fernando Alonso bridged the gap between my childhood love for racing, sparked by "Cars," and my adult fascination with the real-world drama and excitement of Formula 1. His career and personality have made a lasting impression, driving my enthusiasm for motorsports to new heights for which I will forever be grateful.
📸 Alonso will tick over 400 F1 appearances by the seasons end…how many will he end his career on?
📸 Image credits: Formula Motorsport Limited, Disney, Aston Martin F1 Team.