Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso supports FIA's decision to trim DRS Zones for Miami Grand Prix

Aston Martin driver Fernando Alonso has given his seal of approval to the FIA's move to reduce the DRS zones by 75 metres apiece for the upcoming Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix track.

This decision follows the recent cut of the DRS zone by 100 metres on the main straight at the Azerbaijan GP.

Alonso explained that data gathered from last year's races revealed that both tracks were among the easiest for overtaking under DRS, which is why the FIA decided to shorten the zones. He added that certain cars were more affected than others by the Azerbaijan change, hence the frustration expressed by some drivers.

When asked by media if he backed the FIA's decision to trim the Miami zones, Alonso said, "I think so, yes. It was the easiest here last year, apparently, so that's why I think FIA did shorten the DRS. In Baku, it was one of the easiest last year, so they shortened the DRS."

Alonso further elaborated on how different teams are affected by the DRS zones, stating that: "I heard Lewis [Hamilton] was saying that the DRS was too short, which I think for them with the high downforce it was too short. For Red Bull, it was too long."

The two-time World Champion acknowledged that as teams have developed their cars to the new aero rules, following cars has become harder. He also suggested that behind the two Red Bulls, the field is tightly packed, making overtaking difficult.

"It's true that this year it seems a little bit more difficult to follow cars - that's 100% correct," he said. "If you remove the Red Bull, sometimes within six-tenths you are from P3 to P16 in Q1 to go out of the next session. So then, eventually, you finish qualifying in the order that you deserve."

Alonso believes it's too early to judge if ground effect is the right way to go and whether the new rules have been a success, as we need to give them more time.

"So maybe this is the story in few years' time or whatever when we have some stability in the rules. Then maybe 2026 everything changes again!" Alonso said.

Alonso's insights show how the FIA's decision to trim the DRS zones for the Miami Grand Prix has taken into account data gathered from past races to ensure the right balance for all teams. It remains to be seen how the changes will affect the race outcome and whether we will see a closer fight among the teams.