Alonso: Readapting to the speed of F1 ‘a challenge’ Date published: May 6 2021 Fernando Alonso says that he has found it challenging to readapt to the speed of Formula 1, both inside and outside of the car. The Spaniard is back on the grid this season after spending two years away driving in other categories including WEC and IndyCar. Not a huge amount has changed in the sport since he left, but the cars have got slightly faster and this season, Friday practice sessions are 30 minutes shorter. He has thus far struggled to adapt to the fast-paced nature of things. “It is a challenge for everyone, and it was no different for us,” he told Sky Sports in the paddock in Barcelona.