Two‑time world champion Fernando Alonso has signaled, perhaps more clearly than ever before, that he hopes to continue competing in Formula 1 beyond the 2026 season. In a candid interview at the Historic Grand Prix in Monaco, the 44‑year‑old Spaniard said he does not see 2026 as his final year behind the wheel and that he still feels both competitive and motivated. Alonso’s current contract with Aston Martin expires at the close of the 2026 campaign.
Earlier this year he hinted that he would reassess his future once the season progressed, acknowledging that the decision would be far more difficult if his car failed to deliver results. The recent Japanese Grand Prix underscored that point: after a lackluster start to the year that saw him forced to retire from the first two races, Alonso managed to finish 18th in Japan, marking the only occasion this season that either of the Aston Martin cars has crossed the finish line after a full Grand Prix distance.
When asked directly about his plans, Alonso replied, “The time will tell. I will feel it.” He went on to explain, “At the moment, I don’t feel it’s that time yet.
I feel competitive, I feel motivated, I feel happy when I drive. So, yeah, hopefully not the last season.” The passion in his voice was unmistakable, and he added a personal note about his lifelong love of racing: “I love what I do. I love racing. I did my first race when I was three years old, and I am 44, so 41 years of my life I have been behind a steering wheel.
The moment I have to stop racing, it will be a very hard decision and difficult to accept.” Alonso’s remarks come at a turbulent time for Aston Martin. The team entered the new era of technical regulations in 2026 with high expectations, buoyed by the appointment of legendary designer Adrian Newey and the partnership with Honda as their works engine supplier. Yet the reality on track has been starkly different.
While newcomer Cadillac was expected to struggle at the back of the grid, Aston Martin’s performance has been even more disappointing. In the three race weekends completed so far, the team has failed to score a single point, and the Japanese Grand Prix saw only one of its two cars finish the race distance.
The lack of results raises questions about the team’s ability to attract a top‑tier replacement for Alonso in 2027, should he decide to step away. Conversely, the poor showing may make the Spaniard reluctant to abandon a career that still brings him joy, especially when the prospect of driving a more competitive car remains uncertain. Beyond the personal storyline, the broader context of the 2026 season is worth noting. The calendar this year features a mix of classic venues and new challenges, with the Miami Grand Prix scheduled for May 1‑3 as the second Sprint weekend of the year.
Sky Sports F1 will broadcast the event live, and fans can stream races via NOW without a long‑term contract. Alonso’s future is not just a matter of personal preference; it also influences the strategic planning of Aston Martin. If the team can turn the development curve around and deliver a car capable of fighting for points, it could persuade the veteran driver to stay and help shepherd the squad toward a more competitive era.
On the other hand, continued struggles might push the organization to consider a younger driver who can grow with the evolving regulations, potentially leaving Alonso to seek opportunities elsewhere or retire on his own terms. In the meantime, the Spaniard’s determination to keep racing reflects his deep-rooted connection to motorsport. Starting his racing journey at the age of three, he has amassed over four decades of experience, including two world championships, numerous race wins, and a reputation as one of the sport’s most adaptable and resilient talents.
His statement that stopping would be “a very hard decision” underscores how intertwined his identity is with the sport. Looking ahead, the next few races will be crucial in shaping Alonso’s outlook. A stronger performance from Aston Martin could reinforce his optimism, while further setbacks might prompt a more serious contemplation of retirement. Regardless of the outcome, his candidness offers fans a rare glimpse into the mindset of a driver who has already achieved so much yet remains hungry for more.
For those following the championship, the upcoming Miami Sprint weekend promises another opportunity to see whether the team can extract performance from its package. The race will be streamed live on Sky Sports F1, and viewers can also catch the action through NOW’s flexible streaming service, which requires no long‑term commitment. In summary, Fernando Alonso has made it clear that, as of now, he does not view 2026 as his swan song. He feels motivated, competitive, and genuinely happy when he’s behind the wheel.
Whether the combination of his personal drive and Aston Martin’s technical progress can align to keep him in Formula 1 beyond next year remains to be seen, but his words suggest that the decision will be guided more by feeling than by a predetermined timeline.