Alonso Targets Trouble-Free Abu Dhabi GP After Surprise P6 Qualifying

Fernando Alonso will start sixth on the grid for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, a surprisingly strong result after a challenging weekend start. The Spaniard expressed delight at the unexpected pace, attributing it to bold overnight setup changes, and is now focused on a clean race.

Why it matters:

After struggling with the car's performance earlier in the weekend, Alonso's P6 in qualifying not only boosts Aston Martin's morale but also positions them favorably to score crucial points in the constructors' championship. A strong finish is vital for their battle against Haas and Sauber, and a trouble-free race will be key to achieving that.

The details:

• Unexpected Pace: Alonso's P6 was a surprise, given his initial concerns about the Abu Dhabi circuit's low-speed corners, which have been a weakness for Aston Martin all season.
• Overnight Setup Gamble: The team made significant setup changes overnight, which transformed the car's balance from understeer-prone to much more competitive. Alonso described these changes as "brave experiments."
• Improved Raceability: The updated setup is expected to make the car more manageable during the race, reducing the likelihood of incidents and allowing Alonso to push more effectively.
• Constructors' Battle: Alonso's primary focus for Sunday is to secure points against rivals Haas and Sauber, emphasizing that this championship battle is their main "incentive" for the race.
• Spectator's View: Alonso humorously noted the abundance of trackside screens, implying he'll be enjoying the main championship battle between Verstappen, Norris, and Piastri while managing his own race.

What's next:

Alonso's goal for the race is straightforward: stay out of trouble and secure points. While he hasn't delved into the potential strategic plays of the championship contenders, his focus remains on executing Aston Martin's race plan and defending their position in the constructors' standings. He hopes to be "not in the news on Monday" for any negative reasons, signaling his intent for a smooth, effective race.