Fans Predict Fernando Alonso Will Be Next Driver to Retire

F1 fans have voted Fernando Alonso as the most likely driver to announce his retirement next, placing him ahead of Lewis Hamilton in a recent poll. Despite the Spaniard preparing for a record-extending 23rd season in 2026 with Aston Martin, public sentiment suggests his storied career could be nearing its conclusion.

Why it matters:

Alonso remains one of the grid's most formidable talents, defying age as he approaches his mid-40s. However, the anticipation of his departure highlights the inevitable generational shift in Formula 1. His potential exit would mark the end of a career defined by relentless competitiveness and tactical brilliance, leaving a significant void in the paddock.

The details:

• Poll Results: In a survey conducted by RacingNews365, 48.27% of respondents predicted Alonso would be the next to hang up his helmet. Lewis Hamilton followed with 32.53%, while Max Verstappen and Nico Hulkenberg trailed significantly at 5.54% and 5.17%, respectively.
• Historical Context: If Alonso competes through the 2026 season, he will turn 45 in July of that year. The last 45-year-old to race in F1 was Graham Hill in 1975. Should he continue into 2027, he would become the first 46-year-old starter since Maurice Trintignant in 1964.
• Team Ambitions: The speculation comes at a pivotal time for Aston Martin. The team is aggressively investing for the 2026 regulations, including the high-profile acquisition of design genius Adrian Newey to challenge for world championships.

The big picture:

The fan predictions contrast sharply with Aston Martin's upward trajectory. With Lawrence Stroll's heavy investment and the team's focus on the 2026 overhaul, the project is built to compete at the front. Alonso has often stated he races only to win, making the team's 2026 potential a compelling reason to stay, yet age remains the ultimate variable that fans are betting against.

What's next:

Alonso is currently under contract and focused on the upcoming challenges. Whether he aims to rewrite the history books as a 46-year-old racer or decides to bow out after the 2026 regulations shake-up remains to be seen. For now, the veteran shows no signs of slowing down despite the odds.