Chinese GP: Diffuser or not on Alonso’s R29?

Renault is at the center of attention these days as the team is reportedly ready to deploy a double diffuser in China this weekend even before the FIA’s decision is announced. Fernando Alonso thus remains highly motivated, as even without the magic diffuser, he has proven that he is still a champion at heart.

Sick two weeks ago in Malaysia, he managed to overcome the illness to enter Q3 in qualifying. In the race, he didn’t manage to gain enough positions to climb up the standings before the race was interrupted. Ultimately, he is comfortably placed in 5th position in the drivers’ championship.

Fernando Alonso, the Malaysian Grand Prix race was eventful for you. Can you tell us…

« I had a great race start. From ninth place, I moved up to third place after the first two corners, demonstrating the benefit of the KERS. But we were heavy on fuel, and it was difficult to maintain my position. When it started to rain, I went off the track before I could change tires. After that, it was a matter of having the right tires at the right time, but it was very difficult to predict the intensity of the rain. Stopping the race was the right decision; it would have been too dangerous to continue in such conditions. »

You said the team needed to improve the car’s performance. Do you trust them?

Absolutely. I have confidence in the team and we saw last year that they can fight to come back and improve the car’s performance. It is still early in the season and everyone is working hard to develop the R29 to be more competitive in the upcoming races. I am disappointed not to have scored points in Malaysia as my goal is to score in every race this season. However, it’s difficult to change the car before Europe, but we have already learned a lot in these first two races of the season and we certainly made progress in Malaysia. We still need to take a step forward in China and I hope to score points.

Are you looking forward to being in Shanghai and what is your opinion on the circuit?

« It definitely ranks among the circuits I like. It’s somewhat similar to Sepang with fast corners, long straights, and some slower sections. You need to find a balance to ensure low enough downforce in high-speed sections and also speed on the straights. I won the race in Shanghai in 2005 when Renault clinched the constructors’ championship. So, I have very fond memories. I also enjoy being in China; the fans are very enthusiastic. »

According to a statement from the Renault F1 Team