Aston Martin confident Fernando Alonso will stay beyond 2026

Aston Martin remains convinced that Fernando Alonso will extend his Formula 1 career with the team beyond the 2026 season, even as the Silverstone-based squad battles through one of its most difficult campaigns in recent memory. Chief trackside officer Mike Krack has publicly dismissed swirling exit rumors, reaffirming that the 44-year-old two-time champion remains integral to their plans despite the team's dismal start.

Why it matters:

Alonso's future has become an urgent topic of conversation after Aston Martin collected just a single point across the opening seven races, leaving the once-ambitious outfit anchored near the rear of the field. Retaining a driver of his caliber is viewed as essential not only for morale during this slump but also for the technical feedback required to develop an aggressive upgrade package aimed at salvaging the season.

The details:

• Shock Alpine link: Reports have suggested Alonso could make a surprise return to Alpine, fueling speculation that his patience with Aston Martin's struggles has worn thin.
• Team's stance: Krack referenced previous commitments, stating the team made it clear "he's here to stay" in prior seasons. He confirmed Alonso plans to decide his future around the summer break and expressed satisfaction with both drivers.
• Professionalism under fire: Krack singled out Alonso's resilience, noting that drivers are the "most affected" and "most exposed" during a crisis. He praised the way both drivers have handled the adversity, stating, "Hats off to the way they handle that."
• No retirement: Despite being the oldest driver on the grid and holding the record for most race entries, Krack shut down any suggestion Alonso should hang up his helmet, declaring bluntly, "Fernando should not retire. He is too quick."

What's next:

Aston Martin is gambling on a major development push later in the year to provide the performance leap needed to keep Alonso committed. With the Spaniard set to formalize his decision around the summer break, the coming races represent a crucial window for the team to prove its upward trajectory and secure its veteran leader for the long term.