Fernando Alonso's future in Formula 1 remains uncertain after the two‑time world champion hinted that a decision about staying with Aston Martin will not be reached any time soon. The Spaniard has voiced clear frustration with the sport's upcoming 2026 rule package and the lackluster performance of his Aston Martin‑Honda machine, which has managed to score points in only two races so far this season.
Alonso, now 45, is currently under contract with Aston Martin until the end of the 2023 campaign. He told reporters at the Spanish Grand Prix that the direction of the power‑unit regulations for next year will be a decisive factor in his next move.
The 2026 regulations will trim the electric component of the hybrid system from roughly 50 percent of total output to about 42 percent, a change that could reshape the balance between internal‑combustion engines and electric motors. "We need to understand whether the new rules will affect the racing and the driving experience," Alonso said. "The cars we have now are, as I've said many times, not the most enjoyable to drive. I hope next year brings a step in the right direction." He added that he must weigh his options carefully, considering whether he would stay behind the wheel or take on a different role within the team.
"I need to think about the best programme for next year and discuss it with the team. Whether I'm driving or contributing in another capacity, the most important thing is that we make the right decision together," he explained. A day after Alonso's remarks, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem appeared to signal a willingness to accelerate Honda's development programme so the Japanese manufacturer can close the gap to its rivals. In a series of comments, Sulayem emphasized that the sport should not lose a champion like Alonso simply because of poor performance.
"There is no way we can let Fernando leave just because of the circumstances. He should be able to stay and succeed on his own terms, not be forced out by an uncompetitive car," he said. Sulayem also disclosed that he had spoken with Aston Martin owner Lawrence Stroll and promised to push for changes that could help Honda. He suggested that the FIA's Power‑Unit Advisory Committee, which includes all five engine suppliers, might look at revising the ADUO (Additional Development Upgrade Opportunities) rules.
Currently, ADUO allowances focus mainly on internal‑combustion engine upgrades, but expanding them to cover hybrid and electric components could give Honda a broader development window. Honda has already used one of its two allotted engine upgrade slots for 2023 and retains at least two more opportunities for 2027, backed by an extra £14 million development budget approved by the FIA. Sulayem said he would meet with the Honda team to understand their specific needs and explore how the regulatory framework could be tweaked to provide a more level playing field. Red Bull's engine, which the FIA identified earlier this year as the strongest, and Mercedes, widely regarded as the benchmark, are both ahead of Honda in terms of outright power and reliability.
However, both team principals – Red Bull's Laurent Mekies and Mercedes' Toto Wolff – have expressed openness to adjustments that could help Honda catch up. Wolff noted, "The ADUO mechanism was designed as a catch‑up tool, and Honda clearly needs more flexibility." Mekies added that the sport regularly reviews its regulations to ensure competitiveness. "We made an initial change to the ADUO rules earlier this year to assist those who were falling behind. All the teams voted for it because it benefits the sport as a whole.
We will continue to discuss the future of these rules and address any shortcomings," he said. Whether Alonso's comments are a strategic push for regulatory change or a genuine expression of dissatisfaction with the current cars is hard to gauge.
The veteran driver made his Formula 1 debut in 2001, when naturally aspirated V10 engines roared around circuits, a stark contrast to today's highly regulated hybrid power units. The shift in technology, combined with Aston Martin's struggles, has left him questioning how long he can continue to compete at the front. Sky Sports F1 analyst Bernie Collins summed up the situation: "It's not fun to be stuck at the back, dealing with unreliability and only ever making it to Q1. The engine underperforms, and the chassis isn't helping either.
The Hungary aero upgrade gave a little boost, but the Zandvoort engine upgrade fell short of expectations. Fernando isn't enjoying it, and he has to ask himself if it's worth the risk week after week." Alonso will turn 46 next summer, and the last driver to race in Formula 1 at that age was Graham Hill in 1975.
The Spaniard became a father earlier this year and has hinted that he may explore other motorsport avenues, including a possible return to the World Endurance Championship and the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans. Aston Martin's trackside chief Mike Krack reiterated the team's desire to keep Alonso, saying, "We've always been clear that we want to continue with Fernando.
We respect his thoughts and the time he needs to decide. We're confident we can find a solution that works for everyone." The 2027 grid is largely set, with Max Verstappen renewing his Red Bull contract and Williams drivers Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon committing to stay. Only a few seats remain open, meaning Aston Martin would have limited options to replace Alonso if he chooses to retire.
Krack added, "I won't discuss a Plan B. We hope Fernando stays because he's 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." As the season moves forward, the Azerbaijan Grand Prix will kick off a triple‑header weekend from September 24‑26, with the Baku race scheduled for Saturday. Fans can follow the action live on Sky Sports F1 or stream via NOW, which offers flexible contracts and the ability to cancel at any time. The broader question remains: will the FIA and the engine manufacturers adjust the regulatory landscape enough to keep a champion like Alonso in the sport, or will the combination of an uncompetitive car and evolving regulations prompt his eventual departure?
The answer will shape not only Alonso's legacy but also the competitive balance of Formula 1 in the years to come.