How Fernando Alonso almost accidentally triggered McLaren 2007 sacking spree

How Fernando Alonso almost got his F1 mechanics at McLaren sacked

A $1000 gift almost got the Formula 1 mechanics of Fernando Alonso at McLaren sacked during an acrimonious 2007 season. Alonso’s first stint with the Woking-based team, in 2007, was marred by an often intense and acrimonious rivalry with Lewis Hamilton. The Spanish driver had been signed up by Ron Dennis as the defending two-time F1 Champion, partnered up with a rookie Hamilton. Many, including Alonso, expected it to be a routine affair towards …

The Envelopes That Sparked McLaren’s 2007 Civil War

Imagine a driver turning up with mystery envelopes to thank his crew, and a very strict team saying absolutely not—on the spot. That was 2007, Alonso, and a garage that went from calm to chaos in minutes. Was it kindness, mind games, or a culture clash nobody saw coming? Managers stormed in, whispers flew, and the fallout still shadows the paddock—right up to a surprise hug that might change how you see him. Want the money, the mess, and the may…

How Fernando Alonso almost accidentally triggered McLaren 2007 sacking spree

An act of kindness by Fernando Alonso almost resulted in a McLaren sacking spree in 2007, former engineer Mark Slade has claimed.