Fernando Alonso Reflects on Two Decades of Evolution in Formula 1: A Journey Through Safety, Technology, and Milestones

The transformation of Formula 1 over the last twenty years has been remarkable, according to a prominent voice in the sport. Currently, at 43 years old, Fernando Alonso stands as the oldest competitor in the World Championship, having begun his racing career in 2001—the same year that marked the birth of some of his present-day opponents. Throughout his extensive tenure, he has witnessed the retirement of greats like Michael Schumacher and Kimi Räikkönen, celebrated two World Championships, and secured 32 victories, all while observing significant shifts within the sport. To commemorate his milestone of participating in 400 Grand Prix events, Alonso's team, Aston Martin, hosted a Q&A session engaging fans globally. During this interaction, he reflected on the evolution of Formula 1 over the years, noting that the most notable advancement has been in the area of safety. He emphasized that several safety innovations have been introduced, significantly benefiting the sport. The racetracks have also improved in their ability to host Formula 1 events. The cars, gear, and equipment utilized during races, as well as the overall pit operations, have all become safer due to the efforts of various teams and the regulatory body overseeing the sport. Alonso remains of the opinion that the core essence of the competition has not experienced drastic transformation in terms of performance and excitement. He stated that the fundamental structure of Formula 1 still centers around a race weekend where twenty drivers aim to finish first. Progress in safety and environmental issues has been achieved, yet the spectacle of Formula 1 continues to maintain its original spirit. He pointed out advancements within the technology sphere—including the introduction of hybrid engines, improvements in fuel efficiency, and standardized tire options from Pirelli—which have challenged teams to adapt in order to remain competitive. Nevertheless, he believes the underlying essence of Formula 1 remains unchanged. The frequency of races is another aspect that has evolved, with increasing demands on drivers each year. For instance, during Alonso's inaugural season in 2001, there were just 17 events in a calendar year. Fast forward to 2024, and this number has surged to a total of 24 races. This significant milestone will allow Alonso to make history at the upcoming Mexico Grand Prix on October 27, as he reaches his 400th start, a record for any competitor in the sport's history. With his contract with Aston Martin set to conclude in 2026, there is a strong possibility he could reach the impressive mark of 450 races.