Alonso Hints at Extending F1 Career Beyond 2026

Alonso Hints at Extending F1 Career Beyond 2026

Two-time Formula 1 world champion Fernando Alonso has suggested he wants to continue racing beyond the 2026 season, marking the clearest sign yet that retirement may still be some distance away.

The 44-year-old Spaniard, whose current contract expires at the end of this season, made the comments during the Monaco Historic Grand Prix on Saturday.

Alonso Still Feels Competitive

Speaking in a television interview, Alonso admitted stepping away from motorsport would be an extremely difficult decision.

“I love what I do. I love racing.”

“The moment I have to stop racing, it will be a very hard decision and difficult to accept.”

He added:

“At the moment, I don’t feel it is that time yet. I feel competitive, I feel motivated, I feel happy when I drive. So, yeah, hopefully not the last season.”

Those remarks are the strongest indication yet that Alonso intends to remain in Formula 1 after next year.

Aston Martin’s Difficult Start to 2026 Era

Aston Martin entered the season with major expectations after becoming Honda’s works engine partner and adding legendary designer Adrian Newey to the team.

However, the campaign has begun poorly, with the car suffering from performance issues and reliability problems.

Honda has faced criticism over engine vibrations that reportedly caused failures and discomfort for drivers.

Yet it has also emerged that a significant portion of Aston Martin’s pace deficit comes from chassis performance rather than solely the power unit.

Newey Confident of Improvements

Adrian Newey has reportedly explained that development progress was slowed by his late arrival and wind tunnel issues, leaving Aston Martin behind rivals in research time.

Despite that, the renowned engineer believes the chassis gap can be reduced during the season.

Honda are also expected to receive additional development opportunities under Formula 1’s new 2026 regulations, designed to help manufacturers close competitive gaps.

Could Alonso Stay for 2027?

With Aston Martin lacking many obvious elite alternatives for 2027, Alonso could remain a valuable option if motivation and fitness stay high.

After such a difficult season, the veteran driver may also prefer to continue until the team becomes more competitive again.

A potential 2027 campaign could offer Alonso the chance for a stronger final chapter in one of Formula 1’s most remarkable careers.