F1 | Aston Martin sees a glimmer of hope? Fernando Alonso reflects on China GP Saturday. Fernando Alonso looks for positive signs after a challenging China GP Saturday for Aston Martin.

Alonso searches for positive signs after a challenging start to the season

Saturday at the China Grand Prix didn’t bring major results for Aston Martin, but the Silverstone team is trying to see the positive side. Both Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll completed the Sprint Race without technical issues, collecting valuable data ahead of Sunday’s main event.

In detail, Fernando Alonso finished seventeenth in the Sprint, starting on hard tyres, while Stroll used the soft compound. Later in the afternoon qualifying, both drivers faced difficulties and were eliminated in Q1. The two-time world champion will therefore start the Grand Prix from nineteenth on the grid.

Alonso remains optimistic

Despite limited performance, Fernando Alonso highlighted how the team maximized every attempt during the session. “I think we did everything possible. We used three new sets of soft tyres and tried to optimize the lap between each set. Unfortunately, this is the level we have at the moment, and it’s still not enough.”

The Spanish driver also pointed out a positive aspect: the car’s reliability, which provides an important foundation to build on for the rest of the season. “We are trying to finish the race on Sunday, see the chequered flag, and at least have a clean weekend in terms of reliability.”

When asked whether it’s realistic to bring both cars to the finish, Alonso expressed confidence. “I think it’s realistic. So far, both cars, through FP1, qualifying, and the Sprint Race, haven’t had problems, and reliability has been strong. There are no signs that any issues will arise tomorrow.”

Competitiveness remains limited

However, Fernando Alonso admitted frankly that the team’s pace is still restricted. “We’re not very fast at the moment, so we’re trying at least to do this and reach the finish line.”

In this early phase of the season, where Aston Martin struggles to keep up with the midfield, the focus appears to be on collecting laps and data. Step by step, the team hopes to gradually close the gap and return closer to the midfield fight in upcoming races.