Formula 1 Rumor: Fernando Alonso health story is exit strategy

(GMM) Mikhail Aleshin has suggested that reports of Fernando Alonso’s (pictured) health problems may be laying the groundwork for an early Aston Martin exit – rather than reflecting any genuine medical crisis.

The Russian racing driver questioned the timing of leaks linking Alonso to nerve and joint damage caused by Honda’s vibration problems.

Mikhail Aleshin 2017 Indy 500 By Zach Catanzareti Photo – mikhail aleshin, CC BY-SA 2.0

“I certainly admit a certain confluence of circumstances – the car, to put it mildly, wasn’t a success, and sudden health problems compounded that – but for me, that’s too much of a coincidence,” Aleshin wrote.

“Something tells me they thought and thought and found a relatively painless solution for the team, the sponsors, and Alonso himself. I’m sure a final decision hasn’t been made, but this leak is a possible way to warm up and prepare the public for his departure.”

Alonso himself, speaking in Shanghai, gave little away – and struck a notably philosophical tone.

“Less tough than what you think,” the two-time world champion said when asked about his mental state, following concerning comments made in Melbourne by Adrian Newey.

“I was lucky enough to live different eras in Formula 1, and eventually super lucky to have competitive cars for half of my career.”

He drew a pointed parallel with his troubled McLaren-Honda partnership a decade ago. “Now when everyone sees the current situation, I think they are a little bit more friendly with us,” he said.

Aleshin said of Alonso’s next move: “Fernando is undoubtedly a brilliant, experienced driver and one of the main stars of the paddock. Let’s hope for the best.”