Grosjean is a potential grand prix winner says Alonso
12 May, 2012
Romain Grosjean was Fernando Alonso's team mate at Renault in 2009
May 12 (GMM) Romain Grosjean is a potential grand prix winner, claims the Frenchman’s first Formula One teammate Fernando Alonso, who shared the Renault team with Grosjean in 2009.
The Enstone based team, however, was imploding amid the crashgate scandal, and Grosjean struggled to perform after being drafted in to replace the sacked Nelson Piquet.
He lost the drive at the end of the season and then found himself in the odd situation of bidding his girlfriend, the French F1 presenter Marion Jolles farewell, as she departed for a grand prix.
“She was there and I was [at] home,” Grosjean is quoted as saying in Barcelona by the Gulf Daily News. “Honestly, I thought it was over and I would never come back to F1.”
But, now as the new reigning GP2 champion, he is back in 2012 at the wheel of Lotus’ black and gold E20 – a car tipped by many as the favourite for victory this weekend.
Many naturally tip Grosjean’s famous teammate Kimi Raikkonen as the most likely winner, but Spaniard Alonso rates the Swiss-born 26-year-old Frenchman as well.
“When his car was not so good he was criticised a lot,” Alonso told RMC Sport, “but when he has a good car he does very good results.
“He has won GP2 and has a fantastic career. He has talent and I’m happy he went onto the podium (in Bahrain).
“He can win a grand prix,” the Ferrari driver professed.
Related posts:
- Grosjean thanks critics who wrote him off in 2009
- Grosjean expects full season with Lotus
- Grosjean nearly quit racing in 2010
- Grosjean now ready for F1 says Boullier
- Alonso: This is the maximum of our potential
Nice comments from Fernando. The Guy is a true professional.
I like his ability as a driver and a as a great sport.