Two‑time world champion Fernando Alonso has signaled, perhaps more clearly than ever, that he intends to keep racing in Formula One beyond the 2026 season. In a candid interview at the Historic Grand Prix of Monaco, the 44‑year‑old Spaniard said he hopes 2026 will not be his final year in the sport, adding that he still feels competitive, motivated, and happy when he is behind the wheel.
Alonso’s contract with Aston Martin is set to expire at the end of the current campaign, and the team has endured a difficult start to the new era of regulations that will take full effect in 2026. After being forced to retire from the first two races because of technical issues, Alonso managed to finish 18th at the Japanese Grand Prix – the only occasion this season that either of the Aston Martin cars has completed a full Grand Prix distance. The lack of points and the overall performance gap have raised questions about the team’s future driver lineup and whether the veteran will choose to hang up his helmet after a season that has been far from ideal. When asked about his plans, 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, noting that he first got behind a steering wheel at the age of three. “I’m 44 now, so I’ve spent 41 years of my life driving. The moment I have to stop racing will be an extremely hard decision and difficult to accept,” he said.
Alonso’s remarks come against a backdrop of significant challenges for Aston Martin. The team entered 2026 with high expectations, having secured the services of renowned designer Adrian Newey and becoming the official works partner of Honda’s power unit. Yet the combination of new technical regulations, a steep learning curve, and stiff competition from established rivals has left the British outfit struggling to find pace. While newcomers Cadillac were expected to be at the back of the grid, Aston Martin’s performance has been even more disappointing, failing to score a single point in the first three race weekends.
The broader context of the 2026 regulation overhaul is also worth noting. Formula 1 will see a shift toward greater sustainability, with a focus on hybrid power units, increased fuel efficiency, and the introduction of a new set of aerodynamic rules designed to promote closer racing. Teams are investing heavily in research and development to adapt to these changes, and the early results often reflect the growing pains of such a transition. For Aston Martin, the promise of a competitive package has not yet materialised, leaving both the team and its star driver in a precarious position.
Despite the on‑track difficulties, Alonso’s enthusiasm for the sport remains undiminished. He continues to speak passionately about the thrill of competition, the technical intricacies of modern F1 cars, and the camaraderie within the paddock.
His experience, spanning more than two decades, includes stints with Renault, McLaren, Ferrari, and now Aston Martin, giving him a unique perspective on the evolution of the sport. Looking ahead, several scenarios could unfold. If Aston Martin manages to close the performance gap and deliver a more competitive car in the latter half of the season, Alonso may feel encouraged to extend his stay, perhaps even signing a new deal for 2027. Conversely, if the team’s struggles persist, the management might explore other driver options, though the lack of a strong alternative could make them reluctant to part ways with a driver of Alonso’s stature.
Alonso’s personal motivations also play a crucial role. He has repeatedly expressed his love for racing and his desire to continue competing at the highest level as long as he feels he can contribute meaningfully.
The psychological aspect of retirement for elite athletes is significant; the transition away from a lifelong pursuit can be challenging, and Alonso’s own words underscore the emotional weight of such a decision. Beyond the immediate future, the 2026 season will be pivotal for the entire Formula 1 grid. The new regulations are expected to reshape the competitive order, potentially allowing teams that adapt quickly to climb the standings.
For drivers, this period represents an opportunity to cement legacies or, in some cases, to reinvent themselves. Alonso’s continued presence could provide a stabilising influence for Aston Martin as they navigate these uncharted waters. Fans and pundits alike will be watching closely as the season progresses, especially with the upcoming Miami Grand Prix, which will also host the second Sprint weekend of the year. The event, scheduled for May 1‑3, will be broadcast live on Sky Sports F1, offering a chance for Alonso to showcase any improvements in pace and to gauge whether his optimism about staying beyond 2026 is justified.
In summary, Fernando Alonso’s message is clear: he is not ready to call time on his Formula 1 career. While the current performance of his Aston Martin machinery leaves much to be desired, his personal drive, love for the sport, and belief in his own competitiveness suggest that he will aim to continue racing as long as the car allows him to be competitive. Whether the team can deliver a car capable of meeting his standards remains to be seen, but the veteran’s determination to keep fighting underscores the enduring appeal of one of motorsport’s most iconic figures.