
F1 Legend Fernando Alonso Reveals Two Shocking Reasons for Backing Jalen Hurts in Super Bowl LIX
In an unexpected crossover of sports titans, two-time Formula 1 World Champion **Fernando Alonso** has thrown his support behind Philadelphia Eagles quarterback **Jalen Hurts** ahead of tonight’s Super Bowl LIX clash against the Kansas City Chiefs. Speaking exclusively to *Sky Sports* from New Orleans, Alonso cited **two compelling reasons** for his allegiance, blending motorsport philosophy with football grit.
1. “Resilience Defines Greatness”
Alonso, renowned for his career comebacks in F1, praised Hurts’ ability to rebound from setbacks. “In racing, you lose a championship by milliseconds, but you return stronger. Jalen’s journey mirrors that relentless spirit,” he said, referencing Hurts’ near-miss in Super Bowl LVII, where he threw for 304 yards, rushed for 70, and scored four touchdowns in a losing effort .
The Spaniard highlighted Hurts’ response to adversity: losing his starting role at Alabama, transferring to Oklahoma, and overcoming criticism as an “uneven” passer in 2024. “He’s like a driver refining their racecraft after a crash. Every failure is a setup for victory,” Alonso added, alluding to Hurts’ record-breaking NFC Championship performance (3 rushing TDs, 1 passing TD) and his NFL-best playoff rushing TD tally (9) .
2. “Leadership is Universal”
Alonso drew parallels between leading an F1 team and orchestrating a football offense. “A quarterback is a *team principal* on the field. Jalen’s calm under pressure—like managing tire degradation in a rain-soaked race—is why the Eagles thrive,” he remarked.
The 42-year-old F1 icon emphasized Hurts’ adaptability amid chaos. Despite cycling through **three offensive coordinators** in four seasons, Hurts has maintained a 46-20 record as a starter and guided Philadelphia to back-to-back Super Bowls . “Continuity is ideal, but champions adjust. Jalen’s pre-snap mastery and growth against blitzes [91 QBR, second in NFL] prove he’s a tactician,” Alonso noted, referencing Hurts’ evolution in 2024 .
Alonso’s Prediction: “Trust the Process”
When asked about the game’s outcome, Alonso invoked racing strategy: “The Eagles’ ground game is their *drag reduction system*. If Saquon Barkley [1,970 rushing yards this season] breaks through, Kansas City’s defense will crack like overworked tires.” He pointed to Barkley’s record-setting season and the Chiefs’ vulnerability to elite rushers .
“Jalen doesn’t need flashy stats—he needs to **finish**. Just like overtaking on the final lap,” Alonso concluded, nodding to Hurts’ mantra: “Success is defined by winning” .
Why This Matters
Alonso’s endorsement underscores a broader theme: **sport transcends boundaries**. Hurts, who has faced doubts about his “game manager” role, now carries not just Philadelphia’s hopes but the admiration of a global motorsport legend. As kickoff nears, all eyes will be on whether Hurts can channel Alonso’s tenacity and steer the Eagles to their second Lombardi Trophy.
*Stay tuned for live coverage of Super Bowl LIX on Sky Sports NFL, featuring Tom Brady on commentary and Kendrick Lamar’s halftime show.