Ferrari Is Losing Its Formula 1 Driver, But Maybe Gaining A New One
© AFP/File Dimitar Dilkoff
Montezemolo officially stepped down as Ferrari's chairman on Monday, after over two decades in the role.
Former two-time world champion Alonso was widely rumoured to be leaving the Italian giant at the end of the current season, two years before his contract ends.
"He's leaving for two reasons," Montezemolo told Italy's RAI TV. "One is he want to test himself in another environment, and two because he's at an age where he can't wait much longer if he wants to triumph again."
Alonso was said to have lost faith in Ferrari's ability to produce a winning car. With three races of the championship remaining, he sits third in the drivers' championship standings.
"It hurt him that he didn't win this year and he needs fresh motivation," added Montezelomo.
Alonso's contract with Ferrari was set to expire at the end of 2016, meaning he would leave two years short of its expiry.
While speculation over the Spaniard's future destination continues, four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel of Red Bull is rumoured to be heading to Ferrari.
Vettel announced last week he was quitting Red Bull.
There's been speculation that Alonso might actually start a professional cycling team - bringing to the world of two wheels his already fierce competitive nature from the world of four.
- I spent 2 weeks in India. A highlight was visiting a small mountain town so beautiful it didn't seem real.
- I quit McKinsey after 1.5 years. I was making over $200k but my mental health was shattered.
- Some Tesla factory workers realized they were laid off when security scanned their badges and sent them back on shuttles, sources say
- 8 Lesser-known places to visit near Nainital
- World Liver Day 2024: 10 Foods that are necessary for a healthy liver
- Essential tips for effortlessly renewing your bike insurance policy in 2024
- Indian Railways to break record with 9,111 trips to meet travel demand this summer, nearly 3,000 more than in 2023
- India's exports to China, UAE, Russia, Singapore rose in 2023-24