Alonso says 2026 could be his last season if car proves race-winning

Fernando Alonso said on Thursday that the 2026 Formula 1 season could be his last, making his decision contingent on how competitive Aston Martin’s car proves under new technical regulations that come into force next year. The 44-year-old two-time world champion, who is in his 23rd F1 season and whose contract with Aston Martin runs through the end of 2026, told Spanish publication AS that if the team produces a race-winning car he is likely to call time on his career.

“It depends on how I feel next year, how I feel physically and mentally. But I don’t know. I don’t have a clear idea right now,” Alonso said, adding that a strong 2026 would probably be his swansong. “If the car goes well, there’s a good chance it will be my last year.” He also said that if Aston Martin struggles he might stay on into 2027 to try to finish on a high.

Alonso’s comments come amid heavy investment at Aston Martin, led by owner Lawrence Stroll and the high-profile appointment of Adrian Newey as Managing Technical Partner. The team will also switch power-unit suppliers from Mercedes to Honda at the end of 2025, a change the Spaniard and the team hope will help exploit the major aerodynamic and...