Cheeky Alonso predicts '21-3' Spanish rout of Italy at Euros

Fernando Alonso and Carlos Sainz are interrupting their home Spanish Grand Prix preparationsto follow events from Euro 2024 in Germany on Thursday evening.

The Spanish duo will be glued to the Group B blockbuster in Gelsenkirchen between Spain and Italy, with qualification for the knockout stage at stake.

"21-3... to Spain" was two-time F1 world champion Alonso's 'cautious' prediction of the outcome, delivered with only the merest hint of a smile.

His fellow countryman Sainz was more circumspect, possibly because as a Ferrari driver he has to live and work and breath all things Italian.

"It's going to be fun to watch surrounded by Italians," said Sainz. "I think we will win 2-1 with a late goal for Spain."

The meeting between the reigning European champions Italy and three-time former winners Spain is the standout tie of the opening round at the tournament.

Top spot in Group B, and a theoretically easier last-16 draw, is at stake as Spain and Italy aim to build on victories in their opening matches against Croatia and Albania respectively.

nr/bsp