F1: Aston Martin Team Principal Mike Krack Applauds Alonso and Stroll Despite AMR23's Performance Drop

Aston Martin Team Principal Mike Krack has shown gratitude for his two drivers, Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll, for their steadfast dedication and professionalism throughout the team's 2023 slump. As the season began, the Silverstone-based team was in the news for their quick ascent up the pecking order, with their AMR23 becoming Red Bull's main rival. After leaving Alpine for the 2023 season, Fernando Alonso joined the team and finished on the podium six times in the first eight races. But when competing teams ramped up their development efforts, this encouraging trend came to an end.

Krack gave thanks to Alonso and Stroll for sticking with the squad through thick and thin, even when they saw their performance drop. He praised their professionalism and emphasised their perseverance, highlighting their crucial role in keeping morale up during this challenging time. 

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 “I am full of admiration for the drivers this year. They've made us a better team. I think you find out more about their character in the tough races," Mike Krack said.

"Mexico was a good example. After that race, they were constructive in the briefings and stuck by us when talking to the media. They could have been really negative in the press – and we would have deserved it for failing to give them a competitive car that weekend – but neither did. Instead, both expressed their faith in the long-term goals and journey we're on. For me, that stands out," he added.

F1: Aston Martin's 2024 Challenger

After shocking everyone in the early going with Alonso's credible challenge against Red Bull for race wins, Aston Martin's performance took a sharp nosedive after Austria. Mike Krack has shared some information about the development of the 2024 car as the squad gets ready for next year.

"We're up against formidable competitors, and the big question mark over the winter is always what kind of job other teams have done," Krack said.

"We are not heading into 2024 with a hangover from 2023. This season – and especially the races at the end of the season – have been very positive for us, with some really valuable learning that will carry over into the '24 car. We're not wrestling with any doubts," he added.

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The likes of Mercedes and Ferrari kept up their consistent performance while Aston Martin saw a drop, and McLaren's in-season improvements put them in a position to challenge Red Bull. Aston Martin did had a run of good luck towards the end of the year, but McLaren's consistent improvements gave them the upper hand.