Second spot makes no difference - Alonso

seeks enjoyment
By Tifosa
October 13 2011

After declaring his intention to keep fighting for 2nd place in the WDC, Fernando Alonso now says it makes little difference and aims to “enjoy” the forthcoming races. 

“We will try to enjoy racing, with no pressure about the championship position because I think finishing second or fifth in drivers' championship is not a big difference.”

This is certainly a different tune to what the Ferrari driver was singing just days earlier, when he said 2^nd place would be a “great result” and spoke of getting second in the WCC as well. Is it a case of sour grapes or just plain acceptance of the realities of the situation?

Most likely the latter, as it is clear Ferrari’s closest rival McLaren is far off in the distance and overhauling the Jenson Button-led team will prove to be an extremely difficult task.

“Once you cannot be champion there is no big interest and in the constructors' championship, which is more important, McLaren is a long way ahead of us. We need to do the maximum but it's difficult to catch them.”

 Alonso, however, also said he would try and enjoy the remaining races. This is probably a good strategy to try something new without the pressure of either championship.

“We will try to enjoy racing. When you can be aggressive at the start, enjoy Sundays, maximize the potential of the car, and we know if we do that then the podium is very possible and if there is one opportunity to win one remaining GP we will try to take it.”