Last Updated on February 12 2024, 4:40 pm

In the ever-shifting sands of Formula One, the announcement of Lewis Hamilton’s departure from Mercedes to join Ferrari in 2024 sent shockwaves through the paddock and beyond. Among those taken aback by the news was F1 veteran Fernando Alonso, who shared his thoughts at the official launch of the new Aston Martin car.

Alonso’s reaction to Hamilton’s move reveals not only his surprise, but also a hint of sarcasm at Hamilton’s sudden revelation of a childhood dream.

The relationship between Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton is one of the most storied in Formula One history, marked by intense rivalry, mutual respect and a complex interplay of competitive dynamics. Their association dates back to the 2007 season when Hamilton, a rookie sensation, joined McLaren to partner Alonso, a two-time world champion. The pairing, which promised to be McLaren’s dream team, quickly became a battleground of egos, strategic wrangling and a defining chapter in both drivers’ careers. It is certainly worth looking back at the pair and their tumultuous relationship.

 

The 2007 season: A tense partnership

The 2007 season set the stage for the Alonso-Hamilton relationship. Alonso arrived at McLaren with the expectation of being the team’s lead driver, but Hamilton’s immediate competitiveness and refusal to play a subordinate role challenged that hierarchy from the outset.

The season was punctuated by several incidents on and off the track that highlighted the growing rift between the two. One of the most notable moments came at the Hungarian Grand Prix when Alonso controversially delayed Hamilton in the pit lane during qualifying, an action which resulted in Alonso being penalised and further strained relations within the team.

Tensions reached a climax as both drivers fought for the championship, ultimately leading to a situation where infighting cost McLaren dearly. The season ended with neither Alonso nor Hamilton winning the title, which went to Kimi Raikkonen by a single point.

Alonso’s relationship with McLaren and Hamilton deteriorated to the point that he left the team at the end of the season, marking one of the most dramatic fall-outs in F1 team history.

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Mutual respect amidst rivalry

Despite the turbulent beginnings, the relationship between Alonso and Hamilton has evolved over the years, moving from fierce rivalry to one of mutual respect. Both drivers have publicly praised each other’s skills and achievements. Hamilton has acknowledged Alonso as one of the best drivers he has ever raced against, highlighting the Spaniard’s relentless drive and tactical ability.

Similarly, Alonso has praised Hamilton’s exceptional talent and consistency, recognising his contribution to the sport and his status as one of the all-time greats.

This mutual respect was evident when Alonso returned to F1 with Aston Martin after a hiatus, and Hamilton welcomed him back, noting that the grid was better with Alonso on it. The competitive fire remains, but it’s clear that over time both champions have come to appreciate each other’s skills and the intense rivalry that once defined their relationship.

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The evolution of their relationship

Over the years, Alonso and Hamilton have both experienced the highs and lows of Formula One, with their paths crossing on the track on several occasions. While their direct competition for championships has been limited by the fluctuating fortunes of their respective teams, moments of on-track combat have often reignited the spark of their rivalry, albeit with a more sporting undertone.

In interviews and public appearances, both drivers have reflected on their 2007 season, sometimes with humour, sometimes with a hint of what might have been if things had gone differently. These reflections have shown that both Hamilton and Alonso have grown not only as drivers but as individuals, learning from their experiences and using them to shape their careers.

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Hamilton Ferrari deal: Alonso’s delayed reaction

The recent news of Lewis Hamilton’s move from Mercedes to Ferrari for the 2025 Formula 1 season has made waves. Fernando Alonso was also caught off guard by the report, as he now admitted.

“I was training that day and with all the stress that everyone has, I missed it. I heard the news a day later,” said Alonso, suggesting that news of Hamilton’s move did not reach him immediately.

Despite the delay, the revelation was no less startling for Alonso, underlining the unexpected nature of Hamilton’s decision to switch allegiance to Ferrari, especially given his long association and loyalty to Mercedes.

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The surprise of the change of allegiance

Alonso expressed surprise, not at the move itself, but at the apparent sudden shift in Hamilton’s allegiance.

“I’m not going to lie, it was a surprise. Not necessarily because of the move itself, but from the outside it seemed like he was very close to Mercedes and very loyal to them,” Alonso shared, highlighting the perceived depth of Hamilton’s bond with Mercedes which made the news seem all the more unexpected.

 

 

 

Alonso mocks Hamilton as ‘childhood dream’ questioned

Adding a layer of intrigue to his reaction, Alonso couldn’t help but comment on Hamilton’s characterisation of the move to Ferrari as the fulfilment of a “childhood dream”. With a touch of sarcasm, Alonso questioned the timing of that dream, suggesting a recent change of heart.

“Twelve months ago it wasn’t his childhood dream, was it? Or even two months ago, because he had a different dream,” Alonso said with a grin, poking fun at the narrative surrounding Hamilton’s move to the iconic Italian team.

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Wishing Hamilton well at Ferrari

Despite the joke, Alonso went on to wish Hamilton well for his upcoming stint with Ferrari.

“I hope he enjoys the experience. I think it is a very special team. And it’s even more special when you win. That’s the thing: you have to win,” said Alonso, alluding to the high expectations and pressure to succeed that come with driving for Scuderia Ferrari.

Having experienced the intense atmosphere at Ferrari himself, Alonso knows the unique challenges and rewards that come with being part of such a storied team.

 

 

The need to win

Alonso concluded his thoughts by reflecting on the potential impact Hamilton could have on Ferrari’s quest for a championship.

“Perhaps Hamilton could give the Reds that ‘extra something’ to finally win the title again. At the very least, the car should be fast enough,” he noted, acknowledging the crucial role of car performance in achieving success.

In summary, Fernando Alonso’s reaction to Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari is a mixture of surprise, sarcasm and sportsmanship. As the F1 world awaits the unfolding of this new chapter in Hamilton’s career, Alonso’s comments serve as a reminder of the complex dynamics and shifting loyalties that define the pinnacle of motorsport.

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