Fernando Alonso faced a disastrous sprint qualifying session at the Dutch Grand Prix and will start 22nd and last in the short race this Saturday. The Asturian driver had three attempts but none proved optimal, after the car had performed satisfactorily in the first free practice session.
The problems began with the new engine that Honda introduced over the weekend. Alonso reported drivability difficulties stemming from the unit pushing excessively on the straights, making it difficult to brake the vehicle. In addition, the AMR26 also presented a failure in the rear active aerodynamics. "The straight mode wasn't working for me and I couldn't open the rear wing during the safety zones. The laps were very complicated," the driver told official Formula 1 media.
Despite the negative result, Alonso acknowledged that the new improvements represent progress. However, he considered the situation premature. "It's a step forward, but it's early and we've had little time and perhaps it's all a bit immature. Things like the controls," he explained. The driver added that the sprint weekend format does not help with development because there are not three practice sessions available to perfect the package before qualifying.
Alonso will use Saturday's short race to gather more data on the engine behaviour and aerodynamics of the car. The sprint is scheduled for 12:00 hours.
