It has been entertaining to witness the rivalry between current F1 champion Fernando Alonso and his teammate Lewis Hamilton. After having the chance to experience and analyze media reports in both English and Spanish, I’ve come to the conclusion that neither of them is viewing the situation objectively. The British, fueled by the typical nonsense printed in tabloids, believe Hamilton is the second coming of Jesus Christ. The Spaniards, for their part, see this as a point of national pride. Undoubtedly, Hamilton has made an extraordinary debut in F1, although what the UK press fails to mention is that he is the first man in F1 history to drive possibly the best car in possibly the best team during his First Season.
On the other hand, Fernando Alonso is the reigning champion who dethroned none other than Michael Schumacher, arguably the best driver in F1 history. This is no small feat considering the caliber of the team with which he accomplished this. Interestingly, no close associate of Alonso or Alonso himself seems to remember such a phenomenal achievement, instead spending excessive time complaining about what Hamilton does or doesn’t do, giving the rookie a level of attention and significance that he hardly deserves.
Then the FIA demoted Alonso 5 places on the grid for supposedly blocking Hamilton’s final attempt at setting the fastest lap, effectively handing the British victory in Hungary on a silver platter. It’s fair to say, however, could someone explain which championship rule Alonso violated? The internet is flooded with interpretations of comments from both drivers, yet sadly, there is nothing regarding which part of the regulations was infringed.
Hamilton is a skilled driver with 13 years behind the wheel, so he is hardly a rookie. Alonso should act like what he is, the current F1 champion, and stop paying attention to tabloids and Hamilton’s inflated ego.
Unfortunately, the sport is rapidly approaching the territory of the Tour de France due to absurd decisions from a governing body stripped of credibility.