Aston Martin may keep Fernando Alonso beyond 2026

Fernando Alonso, the oldest rookie on the grid

We can now define Aston Martin driver Fernando Alonso as the oldest F1 rookie on the grid. That’s a fitting description for the Oviedo-born driver who, at the age of 44, still has no intention of saying goodbye.

And for that, he truly deserves an applause: Alonso is one of the purest examples of passion for motorsport.

According to several sources within Aston Martin, including Team Principal Andy Cowell, there’s no talk of retirement for the Spanish driver. Alonso will continue with the British squad in 2026 as per his current contract and is already evaluating the possibility of a new deal. Maybe for one more season, or even two.

The Newey effect reignites Aston Martin’s ambitions

The arrival of Adrian Newey’s genius at Aston Martin has clearly reignited hope within the team. A team that already stands on solid ground, as shown by the consistent points finishes Alonso has achieved this season.

We’re not saying the AMR is a podium contender just yet, but with such foundations and looking ahead to 2026, the potential for a major leap forward is undeniable.

Next year’s regulation overhaul will reshuffle the entire deck, resetting all benchmarks. But Aston Martin has already secured its secret weapon: Adrian Newey.

And honestly, it’s hard to blame Alonso for not hanging up his helmet just yet. Over the next two seasons, Aston Martin F1 could very well become a genuine front-runner… if everything goes as planned.

Newey already hard at work on the 2026 project

In the meantime, Adrian Newey has locked himself away in his office at Silverstone, Aston Martin’s headquarters. This to focus entirely on the 2026 project.

He’s fully dedicated to it, and those rare times he’s been spotted at the track this year weren’t about bringing upgrades to the 2025 car. That’s for sure

Newey’s ideas will be implemented directly on next year’s project, which will have to face one of the most radical regulation changes in Formula 1 history. A challenge that will put the entire technical and aerodynamic department to the test.

Fernando Alonso career: brilliance, grit and a bit of bad luck

Fernando Alonso’s F1 career speaks for itself: only two world titles in over 400 Grands Prix. Both victories came with Renault in 2005 and 2006, under the leadership of Flavio Briatore.

He remains one of the most aggressive and determined drivers ever. But a few career missteps, and a touch of bad luck, prevented him from adding more titles to his tally.

F1 Aston Martin team principal Andy Cowell confirmed that retirement has never been part of the discussion with Alonso. After all, the only realistic reason for him to stop would be if he won his third world championship in 2026 — provided the car delivers.

More than a certainty, it’s a hope — and one that every motorsport fan shares wholeheartedly.