Max Verstappen would ‘like to see’ Fernando Alonso win Monaco GP

Max Verstappen has claimed he would “like to see” Fernando Alonso win the Monaco Grand Prix after just pipping the Spaniard in qualifying. It’s the latest in a series of jokes between the two drivers after they were embroiled in a thrilling battle for pole. 

Alonso just missed out on securing his first pole position in 11 years after the Dutchman pulled a faster time out the bag on his final run. In the post-session press conference, Alonsi suggested he would need Verstappen to help him out to clinch victory, 

However, the Dutchman stunningly refused to rule it out and joked he would “think about it” overnight. Alonso said: “We need the help from Max but we cannot take it for granted that all three cars will finish the race with no issues. This is Monaco and it’s going to be demanding.”

When pushed on whether he would help Alonso, Verstappen cheekily replied: “I mean I would like to see Fernando win but I’d like to see myself win. It’s a tough one, I’ll think about it.”

Moments after the session, Alonso hinted that the start of the race could offer Aston Martin an opportunity to make a move. The 41-year-old also highlighted one of Verstappen;s weaknesses which could be an area he could exploit. 

He explained: “Max has been a little bit inconsistent so maybe it’s one of those bad ones tomorrow.” In the media pen, Alonso added that pit stops could also be an area the team could benefit on Sunday.

Alonso commented: “I think if we win the race we need some help from Max. maybe a lucky safety car or a bad pit stop for Red Bull. I know they are the best ones on the pitstop but maybe one race they will have a mistake and those kind of things will give us an opportunity.”

Verstappen stressed Red Bull’s race pace was competitive which could provide a boost in the race. However, Red Bull team boss Christian Horner highlighted Alonso would still pose a threat.

He told Sky Sports F1: “There’s a great respect between Fernando and Max but they’re very similar characters. They’re cut from the same cloth and they’re both hard racers.

“They both want to win this race and I’m sure Fernando sees a chance and he knows how valuable that start is tomorrow. That first 500m is what’s going to dictate this Grand Prix.”