F1 champion Fernando Alonso predicts ‘PAINFUL’ future for struggling team

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F1 champion predicts ‘PAINFUL’ future for struggling team

Fernando Alonso was in action for Aston Martin at the Spanish Grand Prix

Kevin McKenna

Tuesday 25 June 2024 13:57 Updated: 15:52

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A former Formula 1 world champion has admitted his current team may be set to endure a 'painful' few weeks.

His comments come in the wake of last weekend's Spanish Grand Prix, where Max Verstappen made it three wins in a row at the iconic track.

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Despite being overtaken by George Russell before the first corner, the Dutchman made a quick recovery, moving past the Brit on Lap Three to take P1.

From there, the 26-year-old cruised to victory ahead of Lando Norris and Russell's Mercedes team-mate, Lewis Hamilton.

It was to be a disappointing day for the squabbling Ferrari pair of Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz, who finished P5 and P6 respectively, whilst Aston Martin failed to register any points in what was a frustrating race for the British outfit.

Lance Stroll finished P14, two places worse off than Fernando Alonso - the last Spaniard to win in Barcelona - as their recent struggles continued.

Fernando Alonso has endured a difficult season with Aston Martin

Max Verstappen collected his seventh win of the season in Barcelona

More 'tough times' ahead

This year, the team had hoped to build on a positive first campaign in F1 in which they secured a top-five result in the constructors' standings, however their form in 2024 suggests they will be unlikely to improve on that position this time around.

Ex-champion Alonso - widely regarded as one of the best racers on the grid - has managed to collect points in just one of his last four races, and delivered a bleak verdict when asked if he expects Aston Martin's fortunes to change at the next couple of races at the Red Bull Ring and Silverstone.