In pics - Fernando Alonso being interviewed by his girlfriend Melissa Jimenez ahead of US Grand Prix

As Formula 1 gears up for the final stretch of the 2024 season, one of its top drivers, Fernando Alonso, found himself in an unusual situation at the U.S. Grand Prix in Austin. Instead of being quizzed by a typical journalist, the Aston Martin star was interviewed by none other than his girlfriend, Melissa Jimenez, a well-known figure in the world of sports broadcasting.

Alonso, who is no stranger to the spotlight, has been under even more scrutiny lately following rumours about his personal life. Earlier this year, the 42-year-old Spanish driver was linked to American pop star Taylor Swift after his split from Austrian TV presenter Andrea Schlager. Alonso added fuel to the fire by posting a playful video featuring Swift’s music, but he remained tight-lipped about the rumours, stating that he prefers to keep his private life separate from his professional career.

Here are some glimpses of the incident:

Melissa Jiménez Dionisio Presenter of DAZN F1 TV in interview with Fernando Alonso. #USGP #AstonMartinF1 #F1 pic.twitter.com/oI1lX3aQSC

— Lucho Yoma (@LucianoYoma) October 17, 2024

However, the two-time world champion seems comfortable mixing both worlds now, as his relationship with Melissa Jimenez, a Spanish Formula 1 journalist, appears to be blossoming. Jimenez, the daughter of MotoGP engineer Antonio Jimenez, has a long history in motorsport broadcasting, having worked for Sky Italia, Mediaset, and now DAZN.

Can Fernando Alonso make a comeback?

During the interview ahead of the US Grand Prix, the chemistry between Alonso and Jimenez was evident, showcasing a lighter side of the usually serious driver. While the couple has not publicly confirmed their relationship, they've been seen together at various events, including being spotted by Spanish media in a car together.

Italian outlets have also speculated on the romance, reporting that the pair became close following Alonso’s breakup with Schlager. Jimenez’s career in motorsports spans more than a decade, and her extensive experience in the paddock made her a natural fit to conduct the interview.

Born near Barcelona, she was a regular presence at MotoGP events thanks to her father’s involvement in the sport. Over the years, she built a career in broadcasting, moving from MotoGP coverage to Formula 1, where she now plays a prominent role.

Despite the swirling rumours, both Alonso and Jimenez have kept their relationship private. But with moments like this interview, it’s clear that their connection is growing stronger—both on and off the track.