Alonso "surprised" by 'crashgate' accusations

10/09/2009
NEWS STORY

Talking to reports at Monza, ahead of this weekend's Italian Grand Prix, Fernando Alonso has admitted "surprise" at allegations that the result of last year's Singapore Grand Prix was fixed, even though he was the eventual race winner.

It is alleged that teammate Nelson Piquet was ordered to deliberately crash on the 17th lap of the race, a move that strategically turned the race on its head. The 'crash' was allegedly deliberately timed in order that it right was after Alonso made an early fuel stop but before his rivals could pit, thereby effectively handing the race to the Spaniard.

Speaking to reporters at Monza today, Alonso said: "I'm very surprised. I cannot imagine these things, these situations. It's something that never entered my mind.

"I will not comment too much about this," he added, "because the team said that as a team we will not comment. "For me it's not even the time to think about, or to pay attention to, this. It's difficult to understand for me all this situation and this investigation. It is just too incredible."

Incredible or not, the allegations are flying, with Nelson Piquet and Son accusing Flavio Briatore and Pat Symonds of ordering the youngster to crash, while the Renault duo insist it was the driver's suggestion.

Asked specifically if he had any knowledge or suspicions about what was going on at the time, Alonso's response was immediate. "No," he snapped.

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Published: 10/09/2009
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