Fernando Alonso’s free-kick skills were on display for all to see as the multiple-time F1 champions left spectators wondering if the McLaren driver ought to be playing football in Barcelona instead of driving around the Circuit de Catalunya. Alonso was playing in the annual charity match before the Monaco Grand Prix, with proceeds going towards raising money for underprivileged kids.
The game between the ‘Nazionale Piloti’ team featuring drivers such as Felipa Massa, Carlos Sainz and Max Verstappen were led by Alonso, while also being graced by former Chelsea and Arsenal stars William Gallas and Emmanuel Petit. The drives defeated an All Star XI captained by Prince Albert II, Monaco’s head of state and managed by Leicester City’s title winning manager Claudio Ranieri.
The final score was 3-1 with Alonso scoring two of the goals. One of the goals netted by Alonso included a sumptuous free-kick, with the Spaniard channelling his inner Lionel Messi by curling a strike into the top right corner, followed by another stunning free-kick at the other end that cannoned off the post.
The Spaniard's incredible footballing skills came to the fore yet again, curling a lovely free-kick over and above the ball, but saw his effort saved. Alonso completed his virtuoso display with a skilful dribble into the box, before playing a no-look pass to a teammate in space, allowing him to score.
With Leicester City fresh off a title-winning campaign, perhaps Claudio Ranieri will be looking to strengthen his side with a free-kick specialist and Alonso seems perfect for that role, especially with Riyad Mahrez looking like leaving. Given McLaren’s awful form this season, perhaps Alonso will be looking to change sports given that he is 12th in the drivers standings with a paltry 8 points from the races so far.
After all, Alonso displayed his pride at the performance with the following tweet:
