Former Grand Prix driver de la Rosa has signed for a new role at Aston Martin.
In addition to contributing to media and marketing engagements, he will also be involved in the team’s young driver development program.
The Spaniard’s new position precedes the arrival of fellow countryman Alonso next year, who will replace retired Sebastian Vettel.
Although Alonso has a reputation for being a badass and sometimes difficult to deal with, de la Rosa believes the situation is not as complicated as some have suggested.
Having worked with Alonso during stints together at McLaren and Ferrari, de la Rosa says the veteran’s attitude is fueled by a competitive spirit.
Asked by Autosport what he would advise Aston Martin about the way it treats Alonso, de la Rosa said: “I don’t think Fernando is a difficult guy to deal with. He’s just very genuine, very honest.
“The fact that English is not his first language sometimes makes him a little harsh when he tries to describe things. But he is very honest. And what he tells you is what he thinks of the car, the team, how to be competitive.
“So as long as you always tell him exactly what’s going on and what the truth is, you’ll never have a problem with him.
“But the moment you try to hide information or he senses that you are trying to keep certain information out, you will be in trouble.
“He’s just a very competitive individual. That’s the reality. If you’re as competitive as him, you won’t have any problems with Fernando.
Carlos Rodriguez Santiago, player and founder of G2 Esports, Fernando Alonso, McLaren and Pedro De La Rosa
Photo by: Sutton Images
De la Rosa has no doubt that Alonso will deliver everything expected of him, as he is convinced of the current Alpine driver’s commitment to success in F1.
“I always said there were maybe three special drivers in F1, and I won’t say which names, but Fernando was always there.
“I’ve always said that Fernando was one of the best drivers in F1 history, and when I said that a few years ago everyone thought I was crazy.
“But I’m still crazy because I think he’s unique, and he’s fully motivated: which is also a very, very, very important detail in the life of an F1 driver, especially when you turns 40.
“I also went there with 40 people. So I know a little. That’s why I think Fernando is coming in at his best and at his peak.
While de la Rosa held firm before Alonso, he says his new role is not about him being an intermediary between the driver and the team management.
“I am joining the team as an ambassador, and there are no plans at this time to act as a liaison between the team and Fernando or any other driver: Lance [Stroll] or Felipe [Drugovich] or whoever.
“The biggest difference in this role [compared to when I was driving] is that I’m not going to be involved in the technical aspects or decisions like that. It’s not part of the plan.
“Honestly, I don’t know where my role will evolve in the future. This is the first chapter of a very, very big book, hopefully full of interesting chapters and chapters.
