Alonso Addresses Lack of Safety Cars: ‘It’s Due to This Generation of Cars’

History was made during the recent Singapore Grand Prix; it marked the first time in event history that no safety cars were deployed. The red Mercedes remained in the pit lane throughout the Sunday evening race. This event also marked the ninth consecutive Grand Prix without a safety car incident. Fernando Alonso attributes this trend largely to the current generation of Formula 1 cars.

Navigating Challenges on the Track

“These cars are complex to drive,” Alonso noted. “Challenges primarily arise when you’re pushing the car to its absolute limits. When drivers choose to operate at around ninety percent of their capabilities, they’re less likely to explore the boundaries, which effectively reduces the chances of accidents.” Given that drivers often have to manage their tires during a race and do not always operate at the edge, Alonso believes this restraint contributes to fewer scenarios that necessitate safety car deployment.

The Paradox of Qualifying Sessions

In qualifying sessions, however, the dynamics shift dramatically. Alonso elaborated on how drivers often exploit their cars’ full potential, leading to unpredictable outcomes. “Bakou was a prime example of this phenomenon,” he explained. “In Q1, I clocked the fifteenth-fastest time, but just seven minutes later, I set the fifth-fastest time in Q2 using a different set of tires. I improved by more than a second while maintaining similar driving techniques. Conversely, some drivers were quick in Q1 but faltered in Q2. Sometimes, there simply isn’t a clear explanation for such fluctuations.”

A Thoughtful Approach to Racing

Alonso concluded that this is precisely why drivers tend to adopt a conservative strategy during races. “We all operate at about ninety percent and are cautious about tire wear and fuel consumption. This approach minimizes complications and leads to fewer safety cars being seen on the track. The cars behave more predictably at this controlled pace. While this contradicts a driver’s natural instinct to push harder, it’s crucial to manage this instinct effectively with the current vehicles.”

Looking Ahead: Evolution of Formula 1

As the conversation about the implications of these racing dynamics continues, Alonso’s insights offer a glimpse into the future of Formula 1 racing. The focus on sustainability and efficiency creates an environment where drivers must adapt their strategies. Added to this are ongoing innovations in car technology, changing the very fabric of competitive racing. Each Grand Prix unveils a new layer of complexity, captivating both fans and drivers alike, and hinting at an evolving landscape in the world of motorsport.