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Fernando Alonso is a phenomenal Formula 1 driver, but his racecraft is even better than his raw driving skills. We’ve seen the 45-year-old design a strategy for himself during a race, and sometimes even for his teammates. Heck, he’s even made pit-stop calls based on what he saw on the TV feed on the trackside screens set up for the fans. He’s so good that his brain can compartmentalize driving an F1 car at the limit while focusing on everything else around him. And even with all that, it begs the question: is it time for him to hang up his helmet? Is it time to retire?
Not according to him, or his employer. This morning, they announced that the Spaniard is staying put until the end of 2027, officially extending his stay at Aston Martin Racing one more year.
“I’m very happy to sign a new contract with Aston Martin,” said Alonso in a statement. “I took my time to make this decision, but racing is my life, my passion, and I know I still have the speed and determination to compete at the highest level.
“I’m committed for the long term with this team and to helping us succeed. I truly believe in what we are building: we have strong leadership, incredible people, partners, and facilities. I look forward to making more memories on the racetrack in front of the passionate fans. Their energy creates an atmosphere that inspires me and is what makes our sport special,” he added.
Jakub Porzycki via Getty
I’m not questioning whether the now-father-of-one can drive or even whether he can win races. The answer to those questions is “duh” and “absolutely.” It’s really about whether he can accomplish anything meaningful, like break into Q3 at every race, constantly fight for points, score podiums, and maybe even sneak in a victory or two before turning five decades old. And unfortunately for him and his legacy, I don’t see that happening this year, next year, or even in 2028.
As things stand, there’s a very, very good chance the 32-race winner will leave Aston Martin the same way Sebastian Vettel did: empty-handed and with a long list of disappointments. Alonso has much better visibility into the team’s inner workings than I do, so he may truly believe the team can accomplish something in 2027, but I just don’t see it. Do you?
Should Alonso accept that a third championship is impossible at this point, and start a new phase at home with his wife and baby? Maybe it is time to actually enjoy all those hundreds of millions he’s made throughout his career.
It’s obvious the team wants to keep him as long as possible, hoping to see a small return on their investment before he retires, but what about Stroll? It’s not like he’s going to accomplish a lot on his own, whether Alonso sticks around or not. Perhaps it’s time the team rethinks its entire lineup.
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As deputy editor, Jerry draws on a decade of industry experience and a lifelong passion for motorsports to guide The Drive’s short- and long-term coverage.
