Racing star, two-time world champion, hero; Fernando Alonso has been called all these things over the past 16 seasons as a driver in the pinnacle of motor racing, but now he can add style icon to that list of accolades. How does Alonso feel as one of the grid's best-dressed men? We sat down with him to find out…

How would you describe your style?

My personal style is pretty casual. When I‘m not in my racing overalls or McLaren Honda team kit, then you’ll normally find me in jeans, a t-shirt and trainers.

How has your style changed as you grow older?

I think that perhaps when you are younger there is a pressure to dress in a certain way and follow the latest fashion trends, but as I’ve grown older I’ve become much more comfortable in wearing what I feel most comfortable in, and not worrying too much about whether it follows the latest trends or not.

What do you like the most about dressing up formally?

Although my everyday style is quite casual, it’s nice when you get the chance to go to an event where you need to wear a smart suit. A well-fitting suit can make you feel great.

What would you pick as your wardrobe staple and why, from: a leather jacket, white jeans or a backpack?

For me it would definitely be a backpack. With the amount of travelling I do, I always take a backpack, packed with all my travel essentials.

What do you wear whilst training, and what is the importance of a well-made and designed garment in which to train?

Training is a big part of my job as a driver – we train like athletes due to the physical strength needed to drive a Formula 1 car. So for my training, I like to be in breathable, comfortable clothing. So many brands are designing great training clothing now with ‘technical’ fabrics that make a real difference when you’re training hard.

Who is someone in your life you find inspirational and why?

My close friends and family are all very inspirational to me. Each one of them inspires me in a different way and I feel very fortunate to have so many people that I can turn to for advice when I need it.

Michael Kors is an American brand, and this year was a big year for you in the US. What is it about America you like?

I loved racing in the Indy 500 this year. The fans were all so enthusiastic and I had so much support, even though at the start of the process not many Indy fans knew who I was. We have been going Formula 1 racing in Austin, Texas since 2012 and it’s a race that I really look forward to every year. I love visiting the US – there’s so much to see and experience – the food, the climate, the landscape – and I’ve always had such a warm welcome.

Would you ever go back to the clean-shaven look?

Well, I could never say never… but for now I think I’ll keep the look I have!

ENTER for a chance to win two tickets to the Esquire x Michael Kors event ahead of this year’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on November 23rd— featuring a live Q&A session with Fernando Alonso. Visit michaelkorsme.com and follow the instructions to enter the draw. UAE applicants only.

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