04 - 06 April
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Video: Alonso's amazing opening lap in Malaysia
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Amid the chaos of Sebastian Vettel and Nico Rosberg's collision at Turn 1, several drivers made astonishing progress on the first lap at Sepang - and chief among them was Fernando Alonso. The Spaniard has a well-deserved reputation for opening lap brilliance, but even by his lofty standards this was something special...
Fernando Alonso was seventh when the chequered flag fell in Malaysia. Having started 22nd and last, the Spaniard had made up an astounding 15 places over the course of the race. Perhaps even more remarkably, he'd managed the exact same recovery just four races ago in Belgium. As ever, it was on the opening lap that the Spaniard made most ground - indeed he gained 10 places on the first lap alone, sitting 12th when the Virtual Safety Car was called. His getaway from the line was good, but it was the opportunistic brilliance to profit from the chaos at Turn 1, and the ensuing 'concertina' through the next few turns, that really set Alonso apart...
Alonso plays a starring role in our regular 'Best Onboards' feature. Check back tomorrow to see more of the Spaniard's brilliance in Sepang, as well as the best multi-corner battles, around-the-outside passes, and several contentious collisions.
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