Fernando Alonso's 2020 season was defined by his continued sabbatical from Formula 1, marked by high-profile appearances in other motorsport disciplines and the significant announcement of his return to the F1 grid for 2021.
Going in
Having concluded his second stint with McLaren at the end of the 2018 season, Fernando Alonso embarked on a sabbatical from Formula 1 for 2019 and continued this break into 2020. His stated ambition during this period was to achieve the Triple Crown of motorsport, having already secured victories at the Monaco Grand Prix and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The Indianapolis 500 remained the missing piece. While not competing in Formula 1, Alonso maintained a rigorous racing schedule, demonstrating his enduring commitment to top-tier competition across various disciplines. This period was not one of retirement, but rather a strategic pause and exploration, keeping his race craft honed away from the F1 paddock.
How it played out
Alonso's 2020 began with a significant challenge: the Dakar Rally in January. Partnering with co-driver Marc Coma for Toyota Gazoo Racing, he navigated the demanding Saudi Arabian terrain, finishing 13th overall. This debut showcased his adaptability and resilience in a completely different motorsport environment. Later in the year, his focus shifted back to the Indianapolis 500, making his third attempt at the event in August with Arrow McLaren SP. Despite the team's efforts, the campaign proved challenging, with Alonso failing to qualify for the race, a notable setback in his Triple Crown pursuit. The most impactful development of his 2020, however, was the announcement in July that he would return to Formula 1 for the 2021 season with Renault, the team with which he won his two World Championships. This news generated considerable anticipation, signaling the comeback of a two-time world champion to a grid dominated by the likes of Lewis Hamilton — 2023 season and the emerging talent of drivers like Lando Norris — 2020 season. He subsequently participated in the post-season young driver test in Abu Dhabi in December, driving the Renault R.S.20, providing an early opportunity to re-acclimatize to Formula 1 machinery.