Alonso 'Better Than Ever' and Has Hunger for F1 Future

Fernando Alonso, the F1 veteran with 421 races under his belt, shows no signs of retirement, stating his desire to continue racing beyond 2026. Despite turning 44 this July, Alonso believes his age has not diminished his ability or motivation, asserting he is driving 'better than ever.'

Why it matters:

Fernando Alonso's continued presence and competitiveness in Formula 1 is a testament to his enduring skill and passion. For Aston Martin, retaining a driver of his caliber provides invaluable experience and a strong benchmark, especially as the team looks toward the crucial 2026 regulations and beyond. His decision on extending his contract will significantly influence the driver market and the team's long-term strategy.

The Details:

• No Retirement Plans: Alonso explicitly stated, "I don't need to race now to prove anything," indicating his motivation stems from enjoyment and passion, not validation.
• Current Contract: His contract with Aston Martin F1 Team is set to expire at the end of 2026.
• Age and Performance: Alonso dismisses age as a factor in performance, arguing that drivers "get better with time" unless motivation or physical capabilities decline, neither of which he feels applies to him.
• Motivation Remains High: He emphasizes that the 'hunger' for daily training, factory visits, and top performance has not waned.
• Impact of 2025 Car: Alonso hinted that the performance of the 2025 Aston Martin car would influence his decision regarding a future beyond 2026, suggesting a relaxed approach focused on enjoyment and results.
• Team First Approach: He also stated, "The team will be first and myself second," when considering future discussions with Lawrence Stroll and the team.

Between the lines:

Alonso's remarks suggest a nuanced approach to his career's twilight. While he remains fiercely competitive, his focus appears to have shifted from proving himself to simply enjoying the sport and contributing to the team's success. This mindset could allow him to race longer than many expect, provided the Aston Martin car remains competitive and enjoyable to drive.

What's next:

The performance of the 2025 Aston Martin challenger will be key. If the team can provide a car that allows Alonso to compete at the sharp end of the grid, it's highly likely he will extend his stay in F1 beyond 2026. His decision will also be influenced by Aston Martin's long-term project and their needs as they prepare for the new engine regulations. For now, Alonso is focused on delivering his best, confident in his abilities and looking forward to the next season.