Alonso to Ferrari? 'Why not?'

Former Ferrari team principal Stefano Domenicali says Fernando Alonso returning to Formula 1 with the Scuderia would be a great story, but says that the move should not be "forced". Alonso is departing F1 after 17 years in order to chase the 'Triple Crown' at the Indianapolis 500.

Domenicali was in charge at Maranello during Alonso's time in red, in which he came runner-up to Sebastian Vettel in the drivers' championship three times – coming agonisingly close in 2010 and 2012.

McLaren were unable to provide Alonso with competitive machinery on his return to Woking in 2015, but things may be different if he were to chase a second spell at Ferrari, with Vettel having pushed Lewis Hamilton all the way in the past two years.

"It would be a great story, but it is something that should not be forced," Domenicali told Auto Bild of a potential Alonso-Ferrari reunion. "But if in the future he makes that decision, why not?

"Of course it depends on whether Fernando returns and to all the other people involved and I leave that decision to them."

Alonso's inability to place himself in a top seat despite his evident talent has been put down by many to his politicking over his career, but Domenicali says the public perception does not match the reality.

"To be honest, when you work with these types of personalities, with that much talent, you cannot say if it is difficult or not difficult," Domenicali added.

"The only thing I can say is that Alonso was very strong, he was very motivated, and he wanted to achieve so much.

"Beyond that, if I am honest, saying that he is controversial is totally incorrect."

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