Fernando Alonso Q & A

The Renault F1 Team prepares for this weekend’s Japanese Grand Prix at the classic Suzuka circuit. Fernando Alonso: “The team can be very proud of this result”

Fernando, you had your first podium finish of the year in Singapore. Talk us through your emotions after the race...
To finish on the podium was a great feeling. It was the result that we have been pushing for and the team really deserved this because we have been unlucky this year and lost many opportunities. Everybody in the team can be very proud as they did a great job all weekend and this was the perfect moment to get this result. It’s a great reward for all the hard work at the track and back in the factories in Enstone and Viry.

We now head to Suzuka in Japan - are you looking forward to going back there for the first time in three years?
Yes, I’m really excited to be returning to this amazing track which is one of my favourites. I have some great memories from Suzuka as I won the race there in 2006, which was a very important result for the championship. Also my battle with Michael Schumacher in 2005 is something that I will always remember. Japan is certainly one of the most enjoyable races of the season because there is a special atmosphere and the fans always show their enthusiasm in a respectful way.

Talk us through the technical challenge of the circuit...
I think all the drivers enjoy the high-speed corners of Suzuka, but it’s also a technical track which gives the engineers a big challenge. In terms of set-up, you have to work hard to make sure you have a car with a good front end for the changes of direction, and a stable rear so you have the confidence to attack the high-speed corners. The Esses section is an important part of the lap as you have to cope with fifteen seconds of continuously changing direction, so it’s very demanding physically. You also need to keep your concentration as there is only one line through the corners and any mistakes cost you a lot of time.