Jean Alesi’s Formula One career is highlighted by a sole Grand Prix victory at the 1995 Canadian Grand Prix on his 31st birthday, a win aided by Michael Schumacher’s mishaps. Despite showing early promise, Alesi’s F1 career is often remembered for its unfulfilled potential.
| Nationality | French |
|---|---|
| Born | Giovanni Roberto Alesi 11 June 1964 Avignon, Vaucluse, France |
Alesi burst onto the racing scene with notable performances in Formula Three during 1985 and ’86, managing his own Dallara-Alfa Romeo. His success continued with the Oreca team, leading to a French F3 Championship win. His transition to F3000 in 1988 with Oreca, however, was less successful, plagued by team issues that overshadowed his season.
Eddie Jordan recognised Alesi’s raw talent and brought him on board in 1989, leading to a championship win even as Alesi started racing in F1 for Tyrrell mid-season. His F1 debut was impressive, securing a fourth-place finish at the 1989 French Grand Prix and delivering strong performances, including a remarkable second place in Phoenix in 1990.
Alesi’s move to Ferrari in 1991, was driven by passion rather than logic. His five years with Ferrari were marked by near-wins and frustrations, culminating in a departure overshadowed by the arrival of Michael Schumacher. Subsequent seasons with Benetton and Sauber showcased his racing but were also marked by unmet expectations.
In 2000, Alesi joined Prost Grand Prix, but by mid-2001, he shifted to Jordan, announcing his retirement from F1 later that year. He then transitioned to touring car racing with Mercedes-Benz and even tested a McLaren-Mercedes F1 car in 2002.
In 2007, Alesi returned to racing in the newly established Speedcar Series in Asia and the Middle East. This stock car championship features 24 identical 600bhp cars competing on various tracks. Alesi expressed enthusiasm for his new venture, highlighting his broad racing experience and eagerness to try stock cars.
Jean Alesi Formula One World Championship career
| F1 Career | 1989–2001 |
|---|---|
| Teams | Tyrrell, Ferrari, Benetton, Sauber, Prost, Jordan |
| Engines | Cosworth, Ferrari, Renault, Petronas, Peugeot, Acer, Honda |
| Entries | 202 (201 starts) |
| Championships | 0 |
| Wins | 1 |
| Podiums | 32 |
| Career points | 241 |
| Pole positions | 2 |
| Fastest laps | 4 |
| First entry | 1989 French Grand Prix |
| First win | 1995 Canadian Grand Prix |
| Last win | 1995 Canadian Grand Prix |
| Last entry | 2001 Japanese Grand Prix |
Sources: Wikipedia.com and historicracing.com
