Rubens Barrichello returns to F1

Rubens Barrichello, the former Ferrari legend, has joked about being “ready” to return to Formula 1 as Fernando Alonso’s team-mate at Aston Martin. Despite retiring from F1 in 2011, the Brazilian remains a significant figure in motorsport, currently competing in the Brazil-based Stock Car Pro Series.

Barrichello’s Legacy in F1

Barrichello, a name synonymous with Formula 1’s modern era, boasts 11 race victories from an illustrious 18-year career spanning 1993 to 2011.

• Ferrari Years: Best remembered for his partnership with Michael Schumacher, Barrichello was pivotal during Ferrari’s dominant run in the early 2000s.
• Brawn GP Era: Partnered Jenson Button during Brawn GP’s stunning 2009 title-winning season.
• F1 Resilience: Despite his departure from Williams in 2011, Barrichello never officially announced his retirement, briefly flirting with a return via Caterham in 2014.

The Quip: “I’m Ready” for Alonso

In a lighthearted moment during F1’s Beyond The Grid podcast, Barrichello teased his willingness to partner Fernando Alonso at Aston Martin:

“If he comes to me now and says, ‘I want you to be my team-mate at Aston,’ I’ll still be ready!”

Fernando Alonso’s Passion Impresses Barrichello

Barrichello expressed admiration for Alonso’s unyielding love for racing. Reflecting on Alonso’s 400th F1 appearance at the Brazilian Grand Prix, he remarked:

“What I love about Alonso is that you look in his eyes, and he still loves it. That’s the passion that keeps him going.”

Barrichello also shared an anecdote about racing alongside Alonso in a virtual Le Mans event, showcasing the Spaniard’s competitive drive.

Lance Stroll Under Fire

While Alonso continues to shine, his current Aston Martin team-mate Lance Stroll has faced increasing scrutiny:

• Brazilian GP Incident: Stroll drew criticism for getting stuck in the gravel during the formation lap, with fans chanting the name of reserve driver Felipe Drugovich.
• Motivation Questions: Former Haas boss Guenther Steiner suggested that Stroll “doesn’t want to be” in F1, claiming his presence is solely to fulfill his father’s ambitions.
• Performance Gap: Stroll trails Alonso by 38 points in the Drivers’ Championship, fueling speculation about his future.

Aston Martin’s Ambitious Future

Despite a turbulent season, Aston Martin’s prospects are bright. The team secured the services of Adrian Newey, F1’s most decorated design genius, responsible for 26 Drivers’ and Constructors’ titles.

With Newey’s expertise and Alonso’s determination, hopes are high that Aston Martin could contend for the title when new regulations are introduced in F1 2026.

Conclusion

While Barrichello’s playful comments have sparked excitement, the spotlight remains on Aston Martin’s evolving dynamics. Alonso’s relentless passion, paired with Newey’s expertise, offers a glimmer of hope for a championship bid. Meanwhile, Lance Stroll must prove his worth or face mounting speculation about his F1 future.

Could Barrichello truly return? Fans may dream, but the reality is that Aston Martin’s focus lies firmly on the future – and the vision of a third World Championship for Fernando Alonso.