Alonso: F2 more fun than “nonsense” F1 qualifying
Fernando Alonso believes the Russian Grand Prix’s Formula 2 support race was “the most fun part of the day” for fans after Formula 1 qualifying featured “nonsense” and “boring” segments.
The second part of qualifying featured zero running from the Red Bulls and Pierre Gasly’s Toro Rosso because they too had grid penalties for engine changes, while the Renaults also chose not to set a time to give them 11th and 12th on the grid and free tyre choice for the race.
“For us it’s OK, this is what we’re used to and we follow whatever,” said Alonso when asked by Motorsport.com about the qualifying spectacle.
“At least I think they enjoyed the F2 race. It’s definitely the most fun part of the day for the spectator.”
Renault driver Nico Hulkenberg, who will line up 12th as his midfield rivals progressed to Q3, admitted there was frustration but said the best tactics for the race need to be employed.
“[It was] boring more than anything,” he said. “It is not what you want to do heading into qualifying.
“Sometimes you have to play the game to come out better tomorrow and we had to do what we had to do today.”
