Fernando Alonso once again left Formula 1 fans in awe, this time showcasing some remarkable multi-tasking skills during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix practice session. The 43-year-old veteran driver impressed not only with his racing abilities but also with his composure under pressure, handling an unusual situation while maintaining his focus on the track.
During the first practice session of the race weekend, Alonso’s Aston Martin race engineer informed him that a plastic bag had latched onto the left side of his car’s Halo, affecting the car’s aerodynamics. The engineer's request to Alonso was clear but unusual: “Fernando, on the left-hand side of your Halo, there’s a plastic bag. If you could reach to your left-hand side to try to remove it, just beside your head on the left-hand side.”
Here is the video:
What followed left fans speechless. Fernando Alonso, while driving at high speeds, calmly took one hand off the steering wheel to try and remove the bag. Onboard footage captured the moment as he reached around the Halo, scanning the area with his visor. Although he initially struggled to grab hold of the plastic, Alonso remained undeterred.
A pass to Yuki Tsunoda!
Even more impressive was his situational awareness. When informed that Yuki Tsunoda was approaching on a hot lap, Alonso immediately pulled to the side of the track to let the faster car pass. Afterwards, he tried again and successfully removed the plastic bag, ensuring his car's aerodynamics returned to optimal performance.
The footage of this incredible feat quickly went viral, with fans marvelling at Alonso's skill and concentration. Many praised the two-time world champion for his mental dexterity, noting that even at 43, he continues to demonstrate why he’s one of the most respected drivers on the grid. The combination of precision, composure, and quick thinking made this moment one of the highlights of the Azerbaijan GP weekend.
The video clip received widespread acclaim on social media, with one fan commenting, “Only Alonso can pull off something like this while still being aware of everything going on around him.” It’s moments like these that keep Alonso firmly in the conversation as one of the best F1 drivers of all time.