Fernando Alonso Sets Timeline for Aston Martin's 'Fundamental Problem' Fix

Fernando Alonso has acknowledged that Aston Martin's 'fundamental problem' will likely keep the team near the back of the grid until after the F1 2026 summer break. The two-time champion believes only significant gains from the Honda power unit and aerodynamic package can close the three-second deficit to the frontrunners.

Why it matters:

Aston Martin entered 2026 with high hopes after a strong 2025, but the AMR26 has struggled with lack of pace and reliability. Alonso's candid admission sets a realistic timeline for recovery, with the team banking on Honda's first-year power unit and a major aero upgrade to turn their season around. Until then, points finishes remain a challenge.

The details:

• Alonso saw positive signs in Canada, starting from 19th to 10th before a seat issue forced retirement. He described the car's natural position as 'at the back' after early-race gains fade.
• The gap to escape Q1 has shrunk from over a second in Miami to around 0.3s in Canada, showing incremental progress through fine-tuning gearbox, gear sync, and downshifting.
• Power unit and aero: The team targets post-Hungarian Grand Prix (July) for the first meaningful upgrades. Honda's trackside general manager Shintaro Orihara confirmed that timing for power unit gains.
• Alonso remains 'relaxed' about running near the back for at least another six races, accepting the situation as part of a learning year.

What's next:

• The team will bring smaller updates race-by-race, but the major step is expected after the summer break.
• Alonso's focus is on extracting more from the Honda engine and adding downforce to the AMR26. 'The fundamental problem and the three seconds off the pace will have to come from the power of the engine and from the aero package,' he said.
• If those upgrades deliver, Aston Martin could become a regular points contender in the second half of 2026.