Alonso asserts McLaren is key to Aston Martin recovery

Fernando Alonso has suggested that Aston Martin can take inspiration from McLaren amid its recovery in Formula 1 this year.

McLaren started the campaign languishing towards the rear of the field before a series of upgrades catapulted it up the pecking order.

Its form has contrasted somewhat with Aston Martin, who started the season strongly before slipping down the grid at recent events.

Alonso scored six podiums in the opening eight rounds, but Aston Martin struggled to be in contention for the higher positions of late.

McLaren, meanwhile, has been getting into the top three on a more consistent basis, scoring its first double podium of the year last time out at the Japanese Grand Prix, with the team now just 49 points behind Aston in the Constructors' Championship.

Inspired by McLaren

As Aston Martin looks to start next season on a strong note, Alonso says it can take notes from McLaren’s job this year.

When asked if he approaches difficult race weekends any differently from others, Alonso told media including RacingNews365.com: “Of course there are a lot of things inside the car and on the setup, just some experimental directions.

“Also for next year, also for looking after the tyres, looking to make a priority of qualifying, making a priority for the race.

“So there are a lot of things going on behind the scenes at difficult weekends.

“We are taking notes, we are learning everything and we are seeing also what our competitors are doing - especially McLaren.

“The big steps they did throughout the season, it is a point there to look at and [it’s] inspiration also for next year.”