Fernando Alonso claims rivals 'visited Lawrence Stroll' over Aston Martin seat

Fernando Alonso claims several drivers who recently re-signed for 2027 had first approached Aston Martin chairman Lawrence Stroll. The two-time champion, still undecided on his own future, says there is no urgency.

Why it matters:

Alonso's decision is one of the last big questions on the 2027 grid. It will shape Aston Martin's line-up and could trigger a chain reaction in the driver market.

The details:

• Asked in Madrid when news on his 2027 plans would come, Alonso replied: "Not soon." On the delay, he joked: "Because I think it's nice, no?"
• With Verstappen, Norris, Sainz and Albon all staying put, Alonso was asked if Aston Martin was getting impatient. His response: "Sure, sure. But those drivers, they were visiting Lawrence in the summer, yes. So, no urgency."
• The 45-year-old expects a stronger weekend at Madrid's new Madring circuit than at Monza.
• "I expect to be more competitive than Monza in any other circuit in the world, probably," he said, while cautioning that kerb riding, grip and track evolution remain unknowns.
• He stressed the importance of accumulating laps on a street circuit, with yellow and red flags likely to play a role.

What's next:

The Spanish Grand Prix gives Alonso a chance to reset after a difficult Monza weekend. Reliability and clean running will be key, while his 2027 decision remains open.