Alonso: “Hamilton is the most solid driver”
Alonso, during the traditional high-altitude press conference of Ferrari in Madonna Campiglio, gives Hamilton the role of the strongest driver of recent seasons, as well as for 2013. However, this position is far from guaranteed as Mercedes will need to perform well to avoid repeating the issues encountered in 2012.
Mercedes had a difficult 2012 season. Despite a single victory in China with Nico Rosberg at the start of the season, the team suffered from repeated technical problems and cars that consumed tires heavily. But despite these results, Fernando Alonso is convinced that Hamilton’s arrival will put Mercedes at the forefront: “I am sure they will be able to win. Mercedes won last year with Nico, and Lewis has also won many races in recent seasons. Even in 2009 with a car that was on average two seconds behind, they eventually finished as winners. Lewis will be fully capable of winning races with Mercedes next year.” Alonso adds that Lewis was the most feared driver for him in recent seasons despite Red Bull securing the titles: “Who is the toughest opponent? The most competitive on the grid, the one to keep an eye on? My answer is Hamilton. That was the case in 2011, as well as in 2012, and it will be in 2013.”
Not challenging the pilot’s abilities, some do not seem entirely convinced of Hamilton’s evident presence at the forefront in 2013. Indeed, for the former McLaren driver to find himself at the lead, he will need to be driving a more consistent and competitive car than last year’s Mercedes. Former driver, Johnny Herbert, comments on this major team change: “He [Hamilton] can lead this team to very good things, but we haven’t seen a very good Mercedes so far.” Indeed, Herbert highlights the difficulties Mercedes has faced in recent seasons: “The development of the car has always seemed to be a stumbling block, and I hope they change their methods for 2013. […] We all know that he will get the maximum out of his car, and I think he will be able to win one or two races, but it’s the championship that Hamilton wants to win. It is on this last point that we expect engineers and designers to be able to provide him with a car capable of achieving this goal.”
While many expect Mercedes supremacy in 2014, with the engine regulation changes seemingly benefiting the team, results are eagerly awaited for 2013. The team will have to be efficient to avoid the issues of last year while providing Hamilton with a car capable of competing with his greatest on-track rival, Fernando Alonso, as was the case in 2007.
