Giancarlo Fisichella names one driver on the F1 grid he’s been blown away by this year

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Former driver Giancarlo Fisichella has admitted he’s been really impressed by Fernando Alonso this season.

Fisichella was speaking on the Beyond The Grid podcast with journalist Tom Clarkson.

The 50-year-old had a fantastic career in Formula 1, completing more than 200 Grand Prix.

In that time, he won three races, including a controversial victory in Sao Paulo where he was awarded the race five days later.

He had some fantastic teammates during his time in the sport across several teams.

Fisichella had his best season in F1 in 2006 when he raced for Renault.

His teammate at the time was Fernando Alonso who went on to win the Drivers’ Championship that year.

Fisichella has admitted he’s been impressed with Alonso this season, 22 years after his debut in the sport.

The veteran is enjoying a renaissance in a very quick Aston Martin car.

He scored another podium on Sunday in Canada after fighting off Mercedes legend Lewis Hamilton.

Fisichella impressed with Alonso this season

Asked about the Spaniard, Fisichella said: “I am impressed but I knew that because you know how quick Fernando [Alonso] is.

“42, 43, 44 years old he can take the same speed and he has much more experience than in the past, so for me, Fernando is in one of the best moments of his career.

“He can win a few races this year with a good car, I’m happy for him and I wish all the best for him.”

Many in F1 are delighted that Alonso is still on the grid this season.

His contract at Aston Martin doesn’t finish until 2024, meaning he’ll still be on the grid aged 43.

He still needs to race for at least a decade longer to set the record for the oldest-ever F1 driver.

However, many including Fisichella have been impressed with what Alonso has done this season.

He’s come close to finally earning that long-awaited win, but it’s been impossible to break the domination of Red Bull.

Max Verstappen has even admitted he’d like to see Alonso win a Grand Prix this year.

It’s hard to see the Dutchman giving his experienced rival an easy ride at any point this season.