He later clarified these comments, adding: “I do feel that nationality matters. I will speak with Mohammed [Ben Sulayem], with [the] FIA… whatever I need to make sure that there is not anything wrong with my nationality or anything that can influence any decision – not only for me, [but] also for the future generation of Spanish drivers that need to be protected.”
Alonso followed through on his word, discussing his concerns with the FIA president before leaving Miami for the weekend. The veteran two-time champion has been punished on a number of occasions this season, including controversial penalties at the races in Melbourne and Shanghai.
Assessing the success of his talks with Ben Sulayem, Alonso said: “Yeah, useful with him yesterday. He’s always on board with every opinion that the drivers have. He knows that we are the ones driving the cars and that we can have some suggestions on things.
“There are a couple of points that we need to address as a sport. He always listens to us. Between all, if we make F1 a better sport and a little bit more consistent.”
