Fernando Alonso stresses importance of recovery behind longevity of motorsport career

Fernando Alonso says he has looked to maximise recovery time over the summer break as it’s an important factor behind his long motorsport career.

Alonso has been a prominent figure at the top level of motorsport for 20 years, having won two F1 world championships and challenged for several more, whilst also competing, and winning, Le Mans as well as driving in the Indy 500 among other high-profile motorsport events.

Indeed, his love for driving fast is showing no sign of abating with him joining Aston Martin at the end of this season on a deal, depending on performance conditions being met, that could see him racing for another three campaigns.

Incredible stuff in the modern era, then, with so few drivers going into their 40s and, more so, Alonso appears as competitive and as hungry as ever.

Speaking ahead of this weekend’s race in Spa, Alonso revealed that using the recent break to recover is a crucial part of his season these days, and that’s what allows him to compete at the top level:

“We all miss racing in August but the time off to recharge the batteries is needed. After 20 years of racing at the pinnacle of motorsports, I have learnt that taking some time to recover is very important, especially during such a hectic year.

“Now that we have more than 20 races in a season, it’s even more important to make sure you maximise your recovery time. But it’s important to keep some exercise routine, as once we get back to racing it’s relentless until December. I do enjoy racing at Spa. It’s one of the most historic races on the calendar. We usually have interesting races there as the circuit lends itself to lots of overtaking opportunities.”