Fernando Alonso, two weeks after being penalized for potentially dangerous driving against George Russell in Australia, found himself employing defensive tactics once more at Suzuka. In the race’s closing stages, Alonso was in a fierce battle for sixth place, with Russell mounting a late charge on fresher tires from eighth, closing in on seventh-placed Oscar Piastri.
Alonso recognized that Russell’s fresher tires could give him a significant advantage in a direct fight and aimed to disrupt Russell’s progress by ensuring Piastri behind him could benefit from the Drag Reduction System (DRS).
By keeping Piastri within one second of his car, Alonso made it challenging for Russell to overtake. This strategic move mirrored Carlos Sainz’s successful tactic in Singapore the previous year, where he kept Lando Norris within DRS range to fend off Russell.
Alonso’s tactics proved effective in slowing Russell’s advance. When Russell and Piastri briefly clashed late in the race, Alonso seized the opportunity to secure his position over the final laps.
Alonso, speaking to Spanish television channel DAZN after the race, characterized his defensive maneuvers as standard racing tactics. However, he cheekily alluded to his penalty in Australia, suggesting uncertainty about future outcomes.
He humorously remarked, “I don’t know what to say anymore after Australia. Let’s see if I get disqualified for the rest of the championship.” Alonso acknowledged that having Piastri behind him helped defend against Russell’s attacks, similar to Sainz’s strategy in Singapore.
Piastri recognized Alonso’s defensive strategy, noting that Alonso was deliberately using his energy to keep him close. Despite Alonso’s efforts, Piastri eventually lost seventh place to Russell on the final lap due to a mistake at the chicane, which cost him momentum.
Piastri admitted disappointment at letting the position slip away but acknowledged the difficulty of following in the current cars. He reflected on the challenging moments with Russell during the race and accepted responsibility for the error that allowed Russell to pass him.
Alonso’s tactical mastery in utilizing DRS to aid his defense against Russell’s charge proved crucial in securing his position in the intense battle for sixth place at Suzuka. Despite the race being marred by penalties and defensive maneuvers, Alonso’s strategic prowess and cheeky humor added intrigue to the spectacle, showcasing the complexities and excitement of Formula 1 racing.
