Fernando Alonso, born on July 29, 1981, in Oviedo, Asturias, Spain, is a highly accomplished racing driver, currently competing in Formula One for Aston Martin. Alonso is best known for his two Formula One World Championships, which he won in 2005 and 2006 while driving for Renault. His victories helped cement his legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats. Alonso’s career, however, extends far beyond Formula One, as he has also achieved significant success in endurance racing, showcasing his versatility as a driver.
In the realm of endurance racing, Alonso’s talents truly shone. He claimed the FIA World Endurance Championship title in 2018-19 and was a two-time victor at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans, both victories coming with Toyota. These accomplishments are especially noteworthy, as Alonso remains the only driver to have won both a Formula One World Championship and the World Endurance Championship, highlighting his dominance across multiple racing disciplines. His 2019 triumph at the 24 Hours of Daytona with Wayne Taylor Racing further solidifies his position as a highly versatile and successful driver on the global stage.
Alonso’s Formula One career spans more than two decades, making him one of the most experienced drivers in the sport’s history. With 398 entries and 395 starts as of 2024, his achievements include 32 race wins, 106 podium finishes, 22 pole positions, and 26 fastest laps. His first Formula One win came at the 2003 Hungarian Grand Prix, and his last victory occurred in front of his home crowd at the 2013 Spanish Grand Prix. His ability to remain competitive in the sport is evident in his fourth-place finish in the 2023 season, where he accumulated 206 points.
In addition to his success in Formula One and endurance racing, Alonso also ventured into the world of IndyCar. He competed in two Indianapolis 500 races, debuting in 2017 and making his final appearance in 2020. While he never claimed a win in the IndyCar Series, his involvement in different motorsports further demonstrates his drive to challenge himself and excel in various racing formats.
Alonso’s enduring passion for racing and his incredible achievements in multiple racing categories set him apart from many of his peers. As he continues to race for Aston Martin in Formula One, Alonso remains a symbol of longevity, talent, and determination in the world of motorsports. His remarkable career has left an indelible mark on both Formula One and endurance racing, ensuring his place among the sport’s legends.