MAGICAL MAX MAKES HIS MARK
Max McRae’s victory in the junior division of the European Rally Championship opener in Hungary last weekend laid down a real marker, His mature and measured outing showed signs of real pace too and he was understated in his celebrations. The Australian-born 19-year-old, son of Alister and nephew of the late Colin, was satisfied with a job well done but kept his feet on the ground despite the stage-winning speed. “It is a good entry into the championship and let’s keep the momentum going,” was his message.
While underplaying the expectations is a smart thing to do, there are many reasons to be encouraged by his pace, especially for a competitor who is only just starting out on his motorsport journey.
At the other end of his career, although he still doesn’t see it quite that way, is Aston Martin recruit Fernando Alonso. The 42-year-old has committed his long-term future to the Silverstone-based operation in a move that will keep him in the top-flight of motorsport until he is 45. The Spaniard could well continue beyond that point, too.
As regular readers will know, MN is very much of the opinion that the two-time World champion is a modern-day hero. His performances for Aston Martin have already showed that he has an undimmed passion to succeed, and using his experience to draw all the strings of the ambitious Aston Martin programme together is a perfect fit for him right now. While there were no lofty claims of when Aston will reach the top, it is clear that owner Lawrence Stroll wants quick success. Alonso will be there as the foundations are laid, and will be hoping his ability to fast-track the path to the top will help him to another title challenge before he decides to hang up his crash helmet for good.
Alonso’s stint in Formula 1 is epic, and he has been a major player for more than two decades. Grand prix racing itself marks its own longevity this year as it starts its 75th season and we celebrate that fact with the first in our series of special features. James Roberts offers a fascinating insight into the opening salvos of the sport, which kicked off at Silverstone in May 1950.
Andy Wallace – a man who, by rights, should have made it to grand prix racing – tackles the MN readers’ questions. The former gas fitter flew up the single-seater ranks with victory in British F3 and Macau before turning his attentions to sportscar racing. A win at Le Mans on his debut kicked off a highly decorated endurance career, and his insightful interview begins on page 20.
We have all the latest from the British Rally Championship too with all the action from the Rallynuts Stages in our comprehensive report. Round one winner Chris Ingram didn’t have things his own way, which has shown that the level of competition for this season’s crown is likely to be the best for years, and you can read how it unfolds in MN throughout the campaign.