Domenicali 'Suffers' Watching Alonso Struggle, Hopes He Stays 'For a Long Time'

Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali admits he "suffers" watching Fernando Alonso fight near the back in an uncompetitive Aston Martin. In an interview with AS, Domenicali gave the two-time champion his full backing amid retirement speculation, insisting the 45-year-old remains one of the sport's most gifted drivers and should stay in F1 "for a long time."

Why it matters:

Alonso's value to Formula 1 extends far beyond results. In his 23rd season and without a win since 2013, he remains one of the most complete and compelling figures in the paddock. Losing a generational talent who has raced across multiple eras would leave a void no statistic could fill, which explains why the sport's CEO is making such a public push to keep him on the grid.

The details:

• Alonso has spent much of 2026 trapped in the lower midfield, often battling only teammate Lance Stroll and Cadillac's drivers once the opening-lap drama settles.
• Domenicali told AS he respects Alonso greatly and insists his speed never faded: "If they give him a good car, he will show the talent he has."
• The F1 CEO highlighted Alonso's "fearless commitment," noting he simply needs "the right project" to thrive.
• The Spaniard's Aston Martin deal runs through 2026, and he hopes to decide on his future around the summer break.
• Retirement talk spiked in Barcelona after Alonso hinted it may be his final race there; the circuit rotates off the calendar until 2028.

What's next:

Alonso's future hinges on whether Aston Martin can finally deliver machinery capable of matching his talent. Domenicali is hoping the team gives F1's "ultimate warrior" a reason to extend his career beyond 2026. With a decision expected around the summer break, the coming weeks could determine whether the grid keeps one of its most enduring stars.