The news emerged, and was eventually confirmed by both teams, on 1 February that the seven-time world champion will break away from Mercedes to join Ferrari from 2025.
But Aston Martin driver Alonso has said he missed the initial furore because he was busy training but even when he did find out, he “didn’t pay too much attention” to his ex-McLaren team-mate’s switch.
Speaking ahead of the launch of the AMR24, Alonso said of the landmark move for Hamilton: “I didn't spend too much time [thinking about it]. I was training actually that day.
“I missed all the stress from everybody. So, I was just one day late on the news.”
Alonso, who raced for Ferrari from 2010 to 2015, added that the news was unexpected given Hamilton’s long-standing relationship with Mercedes.
He continued: “[It] probably was a surprise, I will not lie. But not because the change itself. It was just because, from the outside, it seemed like he was very linked with Mercedes and very loyal to them and things like that. It was a little bit unexpected.
“I don't know the reasons behind; I don't know anything. I don't know the story.
“I didn't pay too much attention.”
Source: Autosport