Fernando Alonso hopes for "many surprises" as Alpine celebrate milestone

Saudi Arabian Grand Prix

Alonso hopes for "many surprises" as Alpine celebrate milestone

The Renault Group and Castrol will celebrate 100 races together in Jeddah

Sam Hall

Thursday 2 December 2021 11:20

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Fernando Alonso is hoping for "many surprises" at the inaugural Saudi Arabian Grand Prix after scoring the first podium of his F1 return last time out in Qatar.

Alonso put in a sensational performance at the Losail International Circuit, making the most of the grid penalties suffered by others to finish third after a fantastic start paved the way for success.

For the second race in succession, F1 visits a completely new venue with the Jeddah Corniche Circuit marketed as the 'fastest street circuit in the world'.

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After shaking his tag as the highest placed driver in the standings without a podium, a title now held by 13th placed Lance Stroll, Alonso has his fingers crossed for another unpredictable weekend.

"It’ll be a new experience for everyone up and down the grid. From what I’ve seen and analysed with the team, it’ll be a very fast circuit," said Alonso.

"I’m not sure we can make comparisons yet, maybe ask me again after Friday when we’ve done some running. As with any new track you have to prepare for the weekend thoroughly and look into every detail.

"We’ve been to a few new circuits already this year so we have an idea what we need to look out for, but a new venue can throw up many surprises. You never know what can happen, let’s hope for another strong weekend."

Alpine and Castrol 100 not out

The Renault Group will celebrate 100 F1 grands prix alongside Castrol in Saudi Arabia with a special livery to mark the occasion.

Since Renault re-entered F1 in 2017, Castrol has been a constant partner supplying oils, fuels and lubricants to the team that in 2021 rebranded to Alpine.

Marking the 100th race of the union, Alpine will replace the black rear section of the engine cover with the iconic Castrol green whilst a '100 race' decal will also feature on the engine cover and a special 'Renault recommends Castrol' message on the rear wing.

“Castrol and bp have been very significant and loyal partners for 100 races," said Alpine CEO Laurent Rossi.

"We are proud of our partnership, which has contributed important steps in technology and performance that have greatly influenced our journey as a team.

"Together we achieved our first podiums and win and we look forward to a bright future that encompasses innovation, vision and further success.

"Off-track, we are proud to pass on the benefits of this innovation to the many road car users now and in the future."