PADDOCK INSIDER: Alonso's inspired Aston Martin move could yield so much – and what a story it would be

When Fernando Alonso left Formula 1 at the end of 2018, after 17 years in the sport, the Spaniard did not know what the future would hold. Despite his near unrivalled belief in his own ability, even he knew coming back in a driving capacity – and with a team that could compete – was a long shot.

“We will come back maybe one day as a tourist and as a commentator and enjoy Formula 1 in a different way,” he said after the 2018 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix – a race where he finished 11th after a wild performance that saw him pick up three penalty points in three separate incidents.