Alonso: 'The long calendar of 23 races brings challenges'

It looks like it will be a record breaking season. With a total of 23 races, the calendar has never been so full. And all that in a time of a pandemic. Fernando Alonso sees a challenge in this busy schedule.

Where the season is traditionally kicked off with the Australian Grand Prix, the start of the season now takes place at the Bahrain circuit. This means the start of a long season with many races. Alonso sees that too as he let us know at speedweek.com. "One of the challenges this year is the long World Cup calendar with the 23 races - and not only for me, but for everyone in the team and in the paddock.”

The season doesn't end until December. That seems like a long time, but before you know it, it's already over. To be fit for the start of the year, Alonso knows what he needs to do. "We must not forget that number and we must try to save as much energy as possible during the year - even in the summer months of June, August and September, even when you feel fresh and strong. Because the more energy you save, the better off you will be in November and December."

Alonso is making his return to Formula One. The two-time world champion returns to the highest racing class after three years. Together with Esteban Ocon he represents the team of Alpine.