Alonso is 'in no way inferior to Vettel or Hamilton'

Former Formula One driver Jean-Eric Vergne believes that Fernando Alonso is "in no way inferior" to Sebastian Vettel or Lewis Hamilton and reckons that the Spaniard would be competing for the world championship if he had a car to the same calibre as Mercedes and Ferrari.

Vergne is currently leading in the Formula E championship, but has never been shy in providing his opinion in the sport in which he was previously a competitor.

Last week, Alonso won his debut race in the World Endurance Championship, and Vergne thinks he would be competing for the F1 title also if he had a better car, believing he is every bit as good as today's leading drivers.

“When you have the same engine as a team that wins races, and you’re also behind Toro Rosso with Honda, this should be a concern,” he said.

“I think McLaren has huge pressure. Fernando [Alonso] told me that the team is preparing a lot of new parts for Barcelona, which would also be good for Stoffel Vandoorne.

“I think if he was at Mercedes or Ferrari, he would win races. He is in no way inferior to Vettel or Hamilton.”

Vergne went on to provided a view on Max Verstappen's current issues, with the young Dutchman coming into criticism from anywhere and everywhere for his conduct on the track, which has led to more than one collision in this season alone.

“Max is a unique driver who is very talented and takes a lot of risks,” he added.

“Previously he was lucky, because he managed to pull off moves that are one in a hundred. Only now it’s not working.

“If he calms down a little and focuses on the main thing – finishing the races – he will be where he should be, which is in the leaders’ group. But now he is making too many mistakes that can be avoided.”

Vergne used to compete in F1 for Toro Rosso, but he doubts he would return to the sport even if he was asked.

“I don’t regret leaving Formula 1,” the Frenchman continued.

“Even if I was invited to return, as happened with Brendon Hartley, I doubt that I would accept it