Fernando Alonso Says He Wants To Stay In Formula 1 Beyond 2026

Written By James Chittick | Published at April 27, 2026

Nov 21, 2025; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Aston Martin Racing driver Fernando Alonso (14) is introduced before the Las Vegas Grand Prix at Las Vegas Strip Circuit. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Double world champion Fernando Alonso has suggested he wishes to remain in Formula 1 for at least another year.

The Aston Martin driver turns 45 in July, with many expecting him to call time on his illustrious career at the end of the 2026 season.

However, the Spaniard has now indicated a desire to continue beyond the end of his current contract, which expires this year.

Alonso is believed to be considering his options, but Aston Martin's lack of pace may influence any decision, with the former champion not wanting to retire in an uncompetitive car.

Fernando Alonso Not Done With Formula 1 Yet

Speaking in an interview with the Automobile Club de Monaco, he said: "I love what I do. I love racing. I did my first race when I was three years [old], and I am 44, so 41 years of my life I have been behind a steering wheel. So the moment I have to stop racing, it will be very hard decision and difficult to accept.

"The time will tell. I will feel it. At the moment, I don't feel it is that time yet. I feel competitive, I feel motivated, I feel happy when I drive. So, yeah, hopefully not the last season."

Aston Martin And Honda Hoping For Improvement

There were high expectations surrounding Aston Martin ahead of this year. But after a dreadful start with engine partner Honda, the car has been languishing at the back of the grid.

Engine supplier Honda has taken the majority of the blame. Reliability and performance issues with the power unit, along with extreme vibrations, have severely hampered the drivers so far.

However, it has since been revealed that the chassis and aero packages designed by new technical boss Adrian Newey are also severely behind most rivals.

Newey has blamed the deficit on his late arrival to the team last year. That, along with wind tunnel issues, has left Aston Martin months behind other teams in terms of development for 2026.

The team is hopeful, though, that the gap can be closed thanks to new rules on engine development that let struggling teams make more in-season upgrades than those at the front of the grid.