Alonso’s One-Stop Strategy at Dutch GP Highlights His Driving Prowess

Fernando Alonso attributed his ninth-place finish at the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix to his driving abilities, transforming a one-stop strategy into a surprising points result for Aston Martin. Starting 18th on the grid, the Spanish driver secured his second points finish of the season, following a 10th-place finish at Monaco in June. His impressive performance involved pitting early on a pair of soft tires before switching to hard compounds for the remainder of the 72-lap race, a tactic that contrasted with other drivers’ typical two-stop approaches. Alonso capitalized on clean air during the overcut, explaining, “We need to sometimes deviate from the norm. When in traffic, we can’t utilize our potential.”

Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin Racing, Alexander Albon, Williams

Photo by: Simon Galloway / LAT Images via Getty Images

Alonso’s race result followed Aston Martin’s introduction of significant upgrades, including a new chassis in Budapest and an improved Honda engine for the Netherlands. The team has since declined from being F1’s slowest outfit to being competitive, though Zandvoort began with challenges. During practice, Alonso faced driveability issues with engine straight-line mode failures, leading to lockups at Turn 1. Both he and teammate Lance Stroll struggled in the sprint race, finishing 17th and 18th, before securing 18th and 19th in Sunday’s qualifying. Alonso noted the team’s progress, particularly on the chassis front, but acknowledged struggles with downshifts and engine braking, adding, “We’re not likely to be competitive at Monza, but Zandvoort marks another step forward.”

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