Well, you know sometimes a clash of personality between 2 individuals manages to prevent what could be a profitable partnership between 2 companies. Business people shouldn't trade on emotions, but on reciprocal benefits, ... in an ideal world.
I'm pretty sure Honda already has some form of agreement with Red Bull for their future in F1 as soon they can produce something competitive.
That would completely fry McLaren. Being used as a test bed for years and then it's sold to someone else? Even the stoic British gentlemen might show some emotion.
APRIL 5, 2017 Alonso to launch fashion brand The signs are growing by the day that Fernando Alonso intends to stay in F1 beyond 2017. Earlier, before the much faster regulations for this year made their debut, the Spaniard was leaving open the possibility he might retire at the end of the season. But then in Australia two weeks ago, he dropped a strong hint that he wants to stay. When asked about reported plans for an expansion of the calendar beyond 20 races, Alonso answered: "We all love racing so I think more racing will always be welcome. But in a couple of years' time." Many took 35-year-old Alonso to mean that he is on the market for a new contract for 2018 and beyond. And there are other signs that the former double world champion is staying put. In Melbourne, Alonso was suddenly no longer wearing the sunglasses of his former sponsor Oakley. Instead, he wore glasses featuring 'Kimoa' branding. Spanish publication Moda now reports that Kimoa is actually a fashion brand that is set to be launched by Alonso and his manager Luis Garcia Abad. The report also says Alonso has secured the assistance of auditor KPMG, which is already an on-car McLaren-Honda sponsor. "The first step will be totally online, so the platform will have a global focus," said Alonso's manager Garcia Abad, explaining Kimoa. "In 2018 maybe we will consider getting into the physical side." In Australia, Alonso also made his debut as the only Adidas-sponsored F1 driver, wearing three-stripe branded gloves and boots.
All that is left for Alonso are second-tier or backmarker teams. Ferrari - No, Mercedes - No, Red Bull - No. Renault - Maybe+, Williams - Maybe. No other team could afford him, unless he has a big sponsor like Santander in tow, which essentially makes him a pay-driver. It is surprising that the best driver on the grid has virtually nowhere to go.
To a certain extend, Alonso is victim of the way he conducted his career. But is he still the best driver on the grid though ? He hasn't been able to show anything since his last win in 2014, no? A lot of water has gone under the bridge. It is was horse racing, there is no way the Alonso would be among the favourites because his form book is empty in the last 2 years. Also, how a driver who hasn't won or even got a podium for so long, still expect a large retainer?
Really? Why?, because of how he left them? He left McLaren in a far worse manner, and for many there was no way they would ever have him back, and yet!........... If anything happened to Vettel that ruled him out for the 2018 season, or if Ferrari genuinely thought Alonso would be their best bet for 2018, then he would be back at the Scuderia. Is it likely?: No Is it impossible?: No Again, why? If Hamilton loses to Vettel this season, can you guarantee that Hamilton won't throw teddy out the cot and quit the sport? How about if he starts demanding a number one status within the team over Bottas and doesn't get his way?, again, can you guarantee he wont quit the team? - He threatened it after his collision with Rosberg in Barcelona last year! And Bottas only has a one year contract at Mercedes - I wonder why that is? If Mercedes feel that they need Alonso, then they'll hire him in a heartbeat for 2018! And if Alonso were to offer his services for free, just to get in the car, then they would have to seriously consider him! Agreed, he doesn't suit the profile for Red Bull It wouldn't make any difference, I can't see him wanting to race for either of them as they'd be little better than being at McLaren. He wouldn't be interested in racing for any of the other teams as they're simply not competitive! Claiming Alonso has "Virtually nowhere to go" in F1 is a tad presumptuous to say the least!
i don't think alonso has anything to prove. it's more of a tally count at this point, he's already proven he is one of the greats irregardless of politics or some questionable career choices. all his peers and adversaries rate him highly. ex-bosses and ferrari departees all recognize him as one of the best. he is regarded in a hero-like light and has a frickin museum in his home country. stats aren't quite high up there of the likes of schumacher or prost, but like senna the stats doesn't tell the full story. in regards of whether he'll stay at mclaren for the rest of the season, i'm sure he will. he loves the sport and still has the drive to win. not saying mclaren will win, just saying he'll probably rather like to be driving than not or be driving in a lesser formula.
Great synopsis. Alonso has an incredible will to compete and to achieve. His outright speed might be a bit less than it once was but his unrelenting drive and racecraft are second to none.