Fernando Alonso has confirmed that he will remain with the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team through the end of the 2027 season, extending his already impressive tenure in the sport to a record‑breaking 24th year. The 45‑year‑old two‑time world champion, who first entered Formula 1 as a 19‑year‑old rookie in 2001, will continue to line up alongside Canadian teammate Lance Stroll, whose own contract extension was announced at the same time. Alonso’s career statistics read like a hall of fame résumé: more than 440 Grand Prix starts, 32 victories and two drivers’ titles earned in 2005 and 2006. He will turn 46 in July, yet he insists his competitive fire remains undiminished.
"Racing is my life, my passion," he said in a statement, adding that he still possesses the speed and determination required to battle at the front of the grid. "I am committed for the long term with this team and to helping us succeed." The decision to stay comes after a turbulent 2026 campaign for Aston Martin. The team entered the new technical regulations with high expectations, bolstered by a fresh partnership with Honda as their works engine supplier and a car designed under the guidance of legendary aerodynamicist Adrian Newey. However, the reality on track has been far from the anticipated breakthrough.
After fifteen races the outfit has accumulated only three points, a performance shortfall that has prompted intense scrutiny from both fans and pundits. Despite the challenges, Alonso remains optimistic about the project’s direction. He praised the organization’s leadership, the quality of its staff, and the state‑of‑the‑art facilities at the Silverstone base. "I truly believe in what we are building: we have strong leadership, incredible people, partners and facilities," he explained.
"Their energy creates an atmosphere that inspires me and is what makes our sport special." Lance Stroll, now 27, echoed his teammate’s enthusiasm. "I'm very happy to continue with Aston Martin Aramco for the long term," Stroll said.
He highlighted the progress the team has made since its inception, noting the hard work across all departments and the tangible improvements being seen at the factory. "We have the resources and the people to become a winning team," he added, underscoring his belief that the groundwork laid over the past few years will eventually translate into podium finishes. The Stroll family’s involvement goes beyond the driver’s seat. Lawrence Stroll, the Canadian businessman who serves as executive chairman and co‑owner of the team, reiterated his ambition to elevate Aston Martin to the sport’s summit.
"Lance and Fernando have been a crucial part of our journey and we are very pleased to confirm that they will continue with us into the next chapter for the team," he said. "Having two drivers with their level of experience, commitment and knowledge provides tremendous value to the whole organisation.
We are here to win, and while our short‑term focus remains on improving performance, I believe we have the world‑class talent we need to achieve our long‑term objectives." Alonso’s extension was not a foregone conclusion. Throughout the summer, there was speculation that the Spaniard might explore opportunities with other top‑tier teams, especially as several high‑profile drivers, such as Carlos Sainz of Williams, reaffirmed their loyalty to their current squads. However, the combination of Aston Martin’s ambitious development plan, the promise of a competitive Honda power unit, and the allure of shaping a team’s resurgence proved compelling enough to keep the champion in the British paddock.
The confirmed driver line‑up at Aston Martin leaves only four seats vacant across the entire grid for the 2027 season. Racing Bulls, a new entrant, has yet to announce its roster, though Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad appear to be front‑runners for retention. Haas appears set to retain its teenage star Oliver Bearman, while the future of Esteban Ocon remains uncertain.
The Frenchman could be replaced by the 2023‑24 Formula 2 champion Rafael Câmara, a Ferrari‑backed prospect who has generated considerable buzz as a potential F1 debutant. Beyond the driver market, the sport itself is gearing up for a notable calendar change.
Formula 1 will return to the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia for the first time since 2017, hosting the Bahrain Grand Prix—a misnomer that reflects the event’s commercial naming rights rather than its geographic location. Fans can catch the action live on Sky Sports F1, with streaming options available through NOW for those who prefer an online subscription without a long‑term contract.
In summary, Fernando Alonso’s decision to extend his stay with Aston Martin underscores his enduring passion for racing and his belief in the team’s long‑term potential. Paired with Lance Stroll’s continued presence and backed by Lawrence Stroll’s unwavering commitment, the outfit aims to transform its early‑season struggles into a foundation for future success. As the 2027 season approaches, all eyes will be on Silverstone to see whether the combination of veteran experience, fresh technical partnerships, and renewed ambition can finally deliver the podium finishes that the team and its supporters have been yearning for.