Fernando Alonso, double Formula One world champion, honored by Real Madrid

On Monday, the Asturian pilot Fernando Alonso, two-time Formula One world champion in 2005 and 2006, received recognition from Real Madrid as a distinguished member of the club, with club president Florentino Pérez presenting him with a shirt featuring the number one.

Alonso, who competed in the Monza Grand Prix (Italy) on Sunday, attended the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium to receive his tribute and experience a "tremendously special day".

The host of the event was Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez, in the honor box of the white coliseum.

"Here is where Madridistas have our main meeting point and experience this special feeling. Real Madrid is legend, triumph, resistance to defeat, talent, dedication, and passion, which are sacred values that we must not lose," said Florentino Pérez.

The Madrid leader highlighted that "a great history" like that of their club "would not be possible without the strength, creativity, and tenacity of unique individuals, nor without the commitment, loyalty, and support of the fans."

"Fernando Alonso is one of us. He is one of the greatest Spanish athletes of all time. A pioneer and a genius who achieved what no one had achieved at that time," said Florentino, emphasizing that "the figure of the pilot goes beyond the circuits".

Fernando Alonso stated that he "loves" the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium where he was honored.

"My feeling starts from when I was little. My father was also a fan of this team and instilled in me the values of the club. I remember the Quinta del Buitre and everything that came after as a child. I really don't know why I am a Real Madrid fan. In some way, like good friends, this team chooses you to be its friend, and it chose me. I am just another member of this great club," concluded Alonso.

After the speeches, the Asturian pilot received a shirt with the number one from Florentino Pérez and then the honorary membership card for the club.

Fernando Alonso, smiling throughout the entire event, wanted to share this "special moment" with his girlfriend, Linda Morselli, with whom he took a photo alongside Florentino Pérez at the end of an event that was so crowded that many attendees had to stand.

To support the Asturian pilot, the tribute also included the presence of a large part of the Real Madrid board of directors and some former soccer players such as Raúl González Blanco.