Fernando Alonso Says He Feels 'As Fast As Anyone' In Formula 1

Written By James Chittick | Published at September 29, 2026
Fernando Alonso
May 22, 2026; Montreal, Quebec, CANADA; Aston Martin driver Fernando Alonso (14) gives a quick interview during Lenovo Grand Prix Du Canada sprint qualifying session at Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

Fernando Alonso has confirmed he will continue racing in Formula 1 with Aston Martin in 2027, extending a career that has already spanned more than two decades.

The 45‑year‑old says the decisive factor behind staying was simple: he “still feels fast”, and cannot imagine stepping away while believing he can outperform others on the F1 grid.

Alonso also weighed up family considerations and the team’s long‑term prospects before committing to another year.

Fernando Alonso and Aston Martin: Why He Chose to Stay

Even on weekends where Aston Martin have struggled, Alonso insists he still sees mistakes from rivals that reassure him he has not lost speed or reflexes.

He admits that finishing outside the points is frustrating, but says he still goes home thinking: “I’m better than that guy.”

The Spaniard also considered Aston Martin’s competitiveness and the impact of the 2026 regulations.

He has been one of the most vocal critics of the new hybrid engines, describing modern Formula 1 as the “battery world championship” and complaining that derating makes driving feel unnatural.

Despite this, Alonso says he is encouraged by planned rule tweaks and by the FIA’s willingness to listen to drivers.

A major factor was the arrival of Adrian Newey, whose influence Alonso believes will help Aston Martin upset the Formula 1 odds moving forward.

Alonso says leaving now would make no sense: “This team has all the ingredients to have success… it was the moment to keep on going.”

Regulations, Honda and Family Life

Alonso acknowledges Honda’s struggles but says internal changes give him confidence the engine will improve.

He also emphasises loyalty to Aston Martin, describing the team as “family”, and says he wants to be part of their eventual rise.

Becoming a father this year did not change his decision, though he expects his son to travel with him more in 2027.

Ultimately, Alonso says racing remains his natural choice: “F1 is still in my blood… one more year made all the sense in the world.”