From GMM
Two-time Formula 1 World Champion Fernando Alonso has said he would consider leaving formula one if the sport enforces standard engines from 2010. The FIA proposal has been highly controversial, particularly among F1's car manufacturers, who have hinted the move might be reason enough to withdraw from the grid. "If they approve a single engine, that would be the last straw," said the Renault driver. "It would be time to start thinking about retirement," the 27-year-old said at a team sponsor event in Spain. Alonso said standardising parts like engines would be another "backwards step" for formula one. He said the last V10 engines with nearly 1000 horsepower, before the sport reverted to the current V8s, were "exciting for the drivers - auto racing at its limit. "We've gone from a glimpse of the future to cars without electronic aids and no grip (and) which are a visual image of the past." The Spaniard added that he was happy with the slick tyre rule for 2009. The Renault driver said the last two seasons, when Bridgestone was the sole supplier of grooved tyres, were difficult because he was not a fan of Bridgestone's control grooves. Next year, the Japanese supplier will still be the sole supplier, but for the first time since 1997, the dry specifications of tyre will be 'slicks'. "The cars had to be driven in an unique way," he said, "with more difficulties than ever. The tyres were sensitive under braking and offered little grip, and had a strange feeling in the corners." Photos: Renault
Recent Articles
|
Racing Multimedia
Recommendations |