Fernando Alonso's future in Formula One remains uncertain after the two‑time world champion hinted that a decision about staying with Aston Martin will not be reached anytime soon. The Spaniard has voiced growing frustration with the sport's upcoming 2026 rule package and the lackluster performance of his Aston Martin‑Honda machinery, which has managed to score points on only two occasions this season. Alonso, now 45, is currently under contract with Aston Martin until the end of the 2023 campaign. He explained that the forthcoming changes to the power‑unit formula—specifically the reduction of the electric component from roughly 50 per cent of total output to about 42 per cent—will heavily influence his next move.
"It comes down to understanding whether the rules for next year will have a real impact on the racing and on the driving experience," he told the press at the Spanish Grand Prix on Thursday. "The cars we have now, as I've said many times, are not the most enjoyable to drive. I hope the changes for next year represent a step in the right direction." He added that he must weigh the best possible programme for the 2024 season, whether that means staying behind the wheel or taking on a different role within the team. "The most important thing will be to decide together what benefits the team the most," he said.
A day after Alonso's remarks, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem appeared to intervene, suggesting that the governing body wants to accelerate Honda's engine development so the Japanese manufacturer can close the gap with its rivals. Sulayem was quoted as saying, "There is no way we can let Fernando leave simply because the car is underperforming. He should be allowed to stay and be successful, not forced out by circumstances." The president indicated he would meet with Lawrence Stroll, Aston Martin's owner, to discuss possible changes that could improve the team's competitiveness.
He also hinted at a willingness to work with the Power Unit Advisory Committee—comprising all five engine suppliers—to explore adjustments to the ADUO (Additional Development Upgrade Opportunities) regulations, which currently focus mainly on internal‑combustion‑engine upgrades. Honda has already exhausted one of its two allocated engine upgrade slots for 2023 and retains at least two more for 2024, along with an extra £14 million development budget approved by the FIA. Sulayem said he had spoken personally with Alonso, acknowledging the driver’s disappointment at competing in his home race without being able to fight for podiums. "I told Fernando that it was unacceptable for a double world champion to be in this position," Sulayem recalled.
"We have already taken steps in May to give the team legal permission to pursue further engine improvements, and I asked Fernando what he needs from us to get better results." Red Bull and Mercedes, the two dominant engine manufacturers, have expressed openness to helping Honda catch up. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff noted that the ADUO system was originally designed as a catch‑up mechanism and that Honda should be allowed additional opportunities. "The conversation with the president and with Fernando is fair," Wolff said. "We want all top constructors to be competitive, and sometimes the regulations need tweaking to achieve that." Laurent Mekies, Red Bull’s team principal, echoed a similar sentiment, stressing that the sport must remain flexible.
"Earlier this year we adjusted the ADUO rules to aid teams that were lagging behind," Mekies explained. "All the teams voted for those changes because they benefit the sport as a whole. While we may not agree on everything, we always look for solutions when a situation threatens the health of the championship." It is still unclear whether Alonso’s comments were primarily a plea for rule changes that would benefit Aston Martin and Honda, or a genuine expression of dissatisfaction with the current generation of F1 cars. The driver, who debuted in 2001 when naturally aspirated V10s roared around circuits, has often contrasted his early career with the hybrid era’s complex power units.
Beyond the technical frustrations, Alonso is also contemplating the length of his career. At 45, he would be one of the oldest drivers on the grid if he continues into 2024. The last driver to race at 46 was Graham Hill in 1975.
Alonso became a father earlier this year and has hinted that he may have ambitions beyond Formula One, including a possible return to the World Endurance Championship and a bid at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Aston Martin’s trackside chief Mike Krack emphasized the team's desire to retain the Spaniard.
"We have always been clear that we want Fernando to stay," Krack said after the Spanish Grand Prix. "We respect his thoughts and the time he needs to decide. We are confident we can find a solution that works for everyone." The broader driver market adds another layer of complexity. Most of the 2024 grid is already set: Max Verstappen has renewed with Red Bull, and Williams’ Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon have confirmed their seats.
Only a handful of teams—Red Bull’s second seat, Racing Bulls, Haas and the new Audi entry—have yet to finalize line‑ups. This limits Aston Martin’s options for a high‑profile replacement should Alonso choose to step away. Krack reiterated that there is no “Plan B” at this stage. "Fernando is vital for our team, for Formula 1 and for motorsport in general.
It would be a huge loss if he left, and I don’t want to think about that scenario," he said. As the season moves toward the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, which will be held on a Saturday as part of a three‑race weekend from 24‑26 September, the spotlight remains on how the sport’s regulators and manufacturers will respond to the concerns raised by one of its most experienced drivers. Whether the FIA will amend the ADUO framework, grant Honda additional development allowances, or introduce other technical adjustments could determine not only Alonso’s future but also the competitive balance of the championship in the years to come. In summary, Alonso’s uncertainty stems from a combination of technical grievances, contract timing, and personal considerations about longevity in a sport that is evolving rapidly.
The FIA’s willingness to engage with teams and drivers, the potential for rule modifications, and Aston Martin’s commitment to finding a mutually beneficial path will all play crucial roles in shaping the final outcome for the Spanish champion.