Spain's 2011 papal visit request

Spanish officials requested Fernando Alonso drive the Pope's car during a 2011 papal visit to Spain.

This bizarre intersection of F1 stardom and Vatican protocol shows how Alonso's fame transcended motorsport at his career peak.

<p>In one of the most unusual requests in Formula 1 history, Spanish officials once asked the Vatican if Fernando Alonso could serve as the Pope's personal driver during a papal visit.</p><p>"I think he knows how to drive, I mean, I think the Pope is not in danger," said Cierva, defending the logic behind the 2011 proposal to put the two-time world champion behind the wheel of the popemobile.</p><p>The Vatican ultimately rejected the request, but the story highlights the extraordinary cultural status Alonso held in Spain during his championship-winning years with Ferrari looming on the horizon.</p><p>"I think he knows how to drive, I mean, I think the Pope is not in danger." — Cierva</p>