Earlier today big news were announced, as McLaren decided to drop last season’s runner up, Fernando Alonso, in favor of signing Nico Rosberg.

Numbers behind the move

Following the driver update halfway through the season, where McLaren faced a downgrade for Alonso, Rosberg became the main target for McLaren, as he would be both cheaper and have better stats.

Another deciding factor was the comments of MFIA President, /u/wwesmudge, who in his justification for downgrading Alonso indicated that the Spaniard would be facing further downgrades, as his career was coming to an end.

McLaren Team Principal, /u/UltimateBMWfan said “It was a difficult decision for both Fernando and us, but in the end, Fernando has left us at McLaren”. ” We’re very thankful for the opportunity to work with Fernando” he adds. “Without him, we wouldn’t have won the championship.”

The Principal also extends a welcome to new driver Rosberg. “I’d like to welcome Nico to the team. We’re very happy with our choice of driver. Nico is young and has the mentality to succeed. He’s just who we need to guide the team to another championship, as well as help out our young driver, Max.”

Signing leaves other teams to consider options

Rosberg was no doubt a target for other teams as well, however with McLaren’s early move they are now left to consider other options. The biggest question now is if another team will pick up Alonso and gamble on the aging driver to return to Championship form.

No more changes expected

With Rosberg secured it’s unlikely that McLaren will make any more changes to their lineup, which now consists of Max Verstappen, winner of Best Young Driver of the Year, and reserve driver Carlos Sainz Jr.