McLaren Publicly Supports Alonso Amid Criticism
McLaren has issued a strong statement backing Fernando Alonso after the driver faced public criticism and questions about his future with the team.
McLaren has moved to publicly support Fernando Alonso after the Spanish driver faced criticism and speculation about his relationship with the team during a challenging start to the 2015 Formula One season.
Alonso, who joined McLaren from Ferrari ahead of the 2015 season, has been under scrutiny following a difficult return to the Woking-based team. While Ferrari has shown a resurgence in form, McLaren-Honda has struggled for pace and reliability, leaving Alonso and team-mate Jenson Button fighting at the back of the grid.
The situation escalated after a Sky Italia presenter, Paola Saluzzi, posted an insulting message about Alonso on social media, leading to her suspension by the broadcaster. McLaren responded with a statement describing the tweet as “rude, inaccurate, inappropriate and gratuitous” and welcomed its removal. The team acknowledged Saluzzi’s subsequent apology.
Team insists on strong relationship with Alonso
Questions have persisted about Alonso’s satisfaction at McLaren, particularly in light of the team’s struggles and memories of his acrimonious split from the squad in 2007. Team principal Eric Boullier told Italian media that Alonso is content at McLaren, dismissing suggestions of internal discord. Boullier pointed out that the current team structure and personnel differ from Alonso’s previous stint, and he described the working atmosphere as positive.
Boullier also addressed the team’s technical direction, stating that both the Honda power unit and the MP4-30 chassis have room for improvement. McLaren plans to introduce an upgraded engine and a major aerodynamic package at the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona, a circuit traditionally seen as a benchmark for car performance.
Looking ahead to Barcelona upgrades
While the Bahrain Grand Prix is expected to be difficult for McLaren due to its emphasis on power, the team is targeting progress at Barcelona. Boullier said that a new engine evolution and revised aero package would be introduced for Spain, aiming to close the gap to the front runners as the season develops.
Despite the public and media pressure, McLaren’s management continues to back Alonso’s role in the team’s rebuilding phase. The focus remains on technical development and long-term improvement rather than short-term results.
