Fernando Alonso's 2021 Formula 1 season with Alpine represented a significant comeback, showcasing his enduring capability and strategic acumen after a two-year hiatus from the sport. This campaign was not merely a return but a re-affirmation of his competitive drive within the V6 turbo-hybrid era, which had seen dominant runs by teams like Mercedes and, in 2021, a resurgent Red Bull.
Going in
Alonso joined the rebranded Alpine F1 Team, formerly Renault, the constructor with whom he secured his two world championships. The expectations were high, not just for the team aiming to consolidate its midfield position, but for Alonso himself to prove his adaptability to a new generation of cars and the intense competition. His teammate, Esteban Ocon, was entering his second full season with the Enstone outfit, providing a benchmark against a younger, established talent.
How it played out
The initial phase of the season saw Alonso adapting to the Alpine A521 and the nuances of contemporary F1 machinery, including the heavier cars and complex power unit management. While Ocon demonstrated flashes of pace early on, Alonso steadily built momentum. Post-summer break, Alonso's form notably sharpened, consistently extracting performance from the car and often out-qualifying and out-racing his teammate. The intra-team battle for points was closely contested, with Alonso ultimately outscoring Ocon, reflecting his consistent points-scoring finishes across 15 races. The Alpine package itself was a solid midfield contender, capable of challenging for points on most circuits but rarely threatening the front-running Mercedes and Red Bull cars that dominated the championship battle, a dynamic also observed in Lewis Hamilton — 2022 season where Mercedes struggled with car performance.
Defining moments
One of the most defining moments of Alonso's season occurred at the Hungarian Grand Prix. While his teammate Esteban Ocon secured a memorable victory, Alonso played a pivotal role, executing a tenacious defensive drive against Lewis Hamilton for multiple laps. This strategic masterclass not only protected Ocon's lead but also highlighted Alonso's racecraft and ability to influence outcomes beyond his own finishing position. Later in the season, Alonso secured his first podium since 2014 at the Qatar Grand Prix, finishing third. This result was a testament to his sustained performance and the team's ability to capitalize on opportunities, marking a significant personal highlight and a strong indicator of his renewed competitiveness. This contrasts with the early career of drivers like Lando Norris — 2019 season, who were still finding their feet.
What it meant
Alonso's 2021 season firmly re-established him as a top-tier driver capable of performing at the highest level. His consistent points finishes and crucial interventions, such as in Hungary, contributed significantly to Alpine securing fifth place in the Constructors' Championship. The season proved that his sabbatical had not diminished his speed or strategic intelligence, setting a strong foundation for his subsequent years in the sport. It demonstrated his ability to return and immediately contend in a highly competitive field, a challenge even experienced drivers like Lewis Hamilton — 2023 season faced in maximizing an imperfect car.
