Two‑time world champion Fernando Alonso has signaled, perhaps more clearly than ever before, that he intends to keep racing in Formula 1 beyond the 2026 season. In a candid interview conducted at the Historic Grand Prix in Monaco, the 44‑year‑old driver said that he hopes 2026 will not be his final year in the sport, adding that he still feels competitive, motivated, and genuinely happy when he is behind the wheel.

Alonso’s current contract with Aston Martin expires at the end of the 2026 campaign, and the Spaniard has previously hinted that he would reassess his future during the year. He noted that a lack of competitiveness in his car would make the decision to retire more difficult, suggesting that his continuation in the sport is closely tied to the performance of the machinery he drives.

The season has been a challenging one for both Alonso and his team. After being forced to retire from the first two races due to technical issues, he managed to finish 18th at the Japanese Grand Prix – the only occasion this year that either of the Aston Martin cars has completed a full Grand Prix distance.

The team’s struggle has been stark, especially given the high expectations that accompanied the arrival of design legend Adrian Newey and the partnership with Honda as a works engine supplier for the new 2026 regulations. When asked about his future, Alonso replied, “The time will tell.

I will feel it. 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.” He went on to reflect on his lifelong passion for racing, saying, “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. So the moment I have to stop racing, it will be a very hard decision and difficult to accept.” Alonso’s remarks come at a time when Aston Martin is grappling with a difficult start to the new era of F1 regulations that will take full effect in 2026.

Despite the excitement generated by the signing of Newey and the technical partnership with Honda, the team has yet to score a point in the three race weekends that have taken place so far. Their performance has lagged behind that of other newcomers, such as Cadillac, which was expected to occupy the back of the grid but has at least managed to finish races more consistently.

The lack of points and the overall pace deficit raise questions about the team’s ability to attract a top‑level driver to replace Alonso in 2027, should he decide to step away. Conversely, the poor results may also make Alonso reluctant to retire after a season that has not lived up to his standards. His desire to stay is further reinforced by his personal connection to the sport, having begun racing at an age when most children are still learning to walk.

Beyond the immediate concerns of driver contracts, the broader context of the 2026 regulation changes is worth noting. The new technical package, which includes a shift to larger hybrid power units, increased aerodynamic freedom, and a focus on sustainability, is expected to reshape the competitive landscape.

Teams that adapt quickly stand to gain a substantial advantage, while those that struggle with integration may find themselves at the back of the pack for several seasons. Aston Martin’s early difficulties suggest that their learning curve may be steeper than anticipated, despite the expertise of Newey and the power of a Honda engine. For fans following the championship, the upcoming Miami Grand Prix, scheduled for May 1‑3, will be the second Sprint weekend of the season and offers an opportunity to see whether Aston Martin can close the performance gap. The race will be broadcast live on Sky Sports F1, and viewers can stream the coverage via NOW without a long‑term contract, cancelling at any time.

In summary, Fernando Alonso’s statements indicate a strong personal desire to continue competing in Formula 1, provided he feels he can remain competitive and motivated. While his current team faces significant technical challenges under the new 2026 regulations, the Spaniard’s passion for racing and his long‑standing career—spanning over four decades—suggest that retirement is not imminent. Whether Aston Martin can turn their fortunes around in the remaining races of the season will likely play a pivotal role in shaping Alonso’s final decision about his future in the sport.