Aston Martin issue powerful statement in defence of Alonso

Mike Krack has launched a passionate defence of Fernando Alonso over his Australian Grand Prix time penalty for the George Russell incident.

On Lap 57 in Melbourne, Alonso braked 100m earlier than on previous laps, sped up before braking again for Turn 6, catching the Mercedes of Russell unawares, leading to the Briton crashing heavily into the tyre barrier and bouncing into the middle of the track.

Alonso would go onto finish in sixth place, but following a stewards investigation, he was handed a drive-through penalty which was converted into a 20-second time penalty that dropped him to eighth in the classification.

In their verdict, the stewards determined that the "unusual manoeuvre" by Alonso as an "aggravating circumstance" and so worth the penalty.

Aston Martin has not seeked a Right of Review into the penalty, with Krack now penning a powerful open letter to fans.

"In motorsport, everyone is relieved that George was ok and walked away after his accident," Krack wrote.

"I want you to know that we fully support Fernando, he is the most experienced driver in Formula 1 history. He has competed in more Grands Prix than anyone else and has more than 20 years of experience.

"He is a multiple world champion in multiple categories.

"To receive a 20-second time penalty where there was no contact with the following car has been a bitter pill to swallow, but we have to accept the decision.

"We made our best case, but without new evidence, we are unable to request a right of review.

"Fernando is a phenomenal racer and he was using every tool in his toolbox to finish ahead of George - just like we saw in Brazil last year with Sergio [Perez].

"This is the art of motorsport at the highest level, he would never put anyone in harm's way.

"Thank you to everyone who has got in touch, we move forward together."