Fernando Alonso has predicted Aston Martin will “be in the mix” with Ferrari and Red Bull after an improved showing on Friday in Zandvoort.

The first day of a race weekend has typically been Aston’s worst this year but aside from Lance Stroll’s crash, the Silverstone outfit have plenty of reason to be optimistic heading into the Dutch Grand Prix.

Fernando Alonso ‘optimistic’ after finishing P2 in Zandvoort practice

Alonso finished P2, splitting the McLarens, in the second practice session of the day, giving him and the team optimism for the weekend going forward.

While the Spaniard still felt McLaren were out of reach, he did suggest that the likes of Mercedes, Red Bull and Ferrari could be within their grasp.

“I don’t think that is within our reach to fight with the McLarens,” he sai

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