Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the original calendar of 22 races was reduced to 17, with some new and old venues added to replace the cancelled ones. The season also saw some remarkable moments on and off the track, such as Lewis Hamilton’s record-breaking achievements, Romain Grosjean’s miraculous escape from a fiery crash, and Sergio Perez’s maiden victory after being dropped by his team.
One of the most memorable stories of the season was the return of Fernando Alonso to Formula 1 after two years away. The two-time world champion signed a deal with Renault (later rebranded as Alpine) to replace Daniel Ricciardo, who moved to McLaren. Alonso had previously driven for Renault from 2003 to 2006 and from 2008 to 2009, winning both his titles with the French team.
Alonso made his first appearance in a Renault car at a filming day in Barcelona in October, driving the 2020 car for a few laps. He then took part in a two-day test in Bahrain in November, driving a 2018 car as part of his preparation for his comeback. He impressed the team with his speed and feedback, showing that he had not lost his touch despite his absence from Formula 1.
However, Alonso’s most remarkable moment came at the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where he was invited by the FIA to take part in a special tribute to mark the 70th anniversary of Formula 1. Alonso drove a demonstration lap in his championship-winning Renault R25 from 2005, alongside Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel in their 2020 cars. The sight and sound of Alonso’s screaming V10 engine was a nostalgic treat for the fans and drivers alike, as he pushed the car to its limits around the Yas Marina Circuit.
Alonso’s performance was so impressive that he was awarded the “Driver of the Day” award by the fans, despite not taking part in the race itself. He also received praise from Hamilton and Vettel, who expressed their admiration for his skill and passion. Alonso said that he enjoyed the experience and that it gave him extra motivation for his return to Formula 1 in 2021.
Alonso’s comeback story was one of the highlights of a challenging but thrilling season of Formula 1, which showcased the resilience and innovation of the sport in the face of adversity. It also gave hope to Alonso’s fans that he can still compete at the highest level and challenge for wins and podiums with his new team.
