Former Haas F1 team principal Guenther Steiner has handed Aston Martin a message that if it can deliver Fernando Alonso a competitive car, it will see the "real" two-time world champion who "can fight".
Despite being 44 years old, Alonso put on a defiant display in the Singapore GP which saw the Spaniard fight through the field after a slow pit stop.
Alonso had been running comfortably inside the points before a slow pit stop saw the Aston Martin driver drop to 15th, hurting his chances of scoring points at the Marina Bay Circuit.
However, the veteran rolled back the clock and carved his way through the midfield with strong pace, recovering to cross the finish line in eighth.
Eighth soon became seventh after the race, following a five-second time penalty for Lewis Hamilton.
It was an example of what Alonso is still capable of despite his age, when he has a car which he feels confident in.
Discussing Alonso's Singapore performance, Steiner said on the Red Flags podcast: "The real Fernando came out. Even if he's old, and it's the toughest race of the year, but he did it.
"He gave us entertainment, and he entertained himself as well. I would say, he was pretty happy doing it. This is what he likes, fighting for something. That was the real Fernando.
"Give him a machine, he can fight for something. He will be ready. A lot of respect for the age he is as well."
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Alonso's future plans
Should Aston Martin hand Alonso a strong car in 2026 for the start of the new power unit regulations, it could be set for a very strong campaign.
Alonso's current contract is set to expire at the end of next season, with the driver having acknowledged himself that it could be the last deal of his F1 career.
In Steiner's eyes, Alonso will judge his performances before making a decision over whether 2026 is his final season in the pinnacle of motorsport, while the team need to scout possible replacements.
"I think he's doing next year, see how he gets on," added Steiner. "I think he takes it year by year. When you get older, it's year by year. You say, 'How do I feel about things'.
"Also, Aston Martin need to see who they can replace him with, somebody of the same talent..."
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