Greenbkk.com Fernando Alonso | Alonso brings Monza to its feet with an incredible podium finish

Alonso brings Monza to its feet with an incredible podium finish

14/9/2011

Fernando Alonso claimed third place in a spectacular Italian Grand Prix in front of the home crowd after a stunning start which saw him claim the lead. Hamilton was breathing down his neck on the final straight, but was impeccably held off by the Spaniard.

Monza once again this year thrilled with excitement at a driver who has now become a hero for this generation of tifosi. Just as he faced his biggest challenge, with Red Bull and McLaren having made further ground at the head of the field, Alonso once again claimed a podium place which puts him second in the overall standings, and was Ferrari's 650th. As if that were not enough, the Spaniard is now the second driver in history, following Schumacher, to rack up 1000 points over his career.

It all began with another dream of a start. The lights turned to green and to the bewilderment of his rivals the two-time world champion held off the brakes until the very last moment to pass the two 'silver arrows' and the all-conquering Vettel. A huge smile spread across the whole of Monza, with the crowd cheering their driver on in unison. And Alonso heard their support, over the thrusts of an aggressive Vettel, who soon pushed him back into second.

It was then that the real battle begun with the Red Bull driver to prevent him from breaking clear. Alonso challenged not only on the track but also through his pitstop strategy, but it was all in vain. Behind him, the duel between Hamilton and Schumacher allowed the Ferrari driver to breathe easier, although before long a new threat appeared in his mirrors.

Jenson Button was right on Alonso's shoulder in his F150º Italia, putting him under constant pressure before finally overtaking to put him in third place. Lewis Hamilton was once again the danger towards the end, but the Ferrari driver held firm to claim a podium finish which felt like a victory.

Alonso aims for runner-up spot

"There are six races left and winning the Championship would be impossible, although in mathematical terms Vettel has not won it yet. We are no longer in the running, so all we can do is try to have fun, compete for the wins and try to finish second in the standings. It's better to finish second than fifth," was Alonso's analysis at the end of the race.

The next port of call will be Singapore, where Fernando once again hopes to repeat his success.

Credit: Fernando Alonso (www.fernandoalonso.com)