Aston Martin group principal Andy Cowell says he’s heard nothing from Fernando Alonso concerning a possible plan to retire from Formulation 1 on the finish of the 2026 season.
Alonso is a two-time world champion and probably the most skilled F1 driver in historical past with 419 grand prix begins, however has been on a 218-round winless streak.
The 44-year-old has been fascinated about his future and, towards all expectations, advised Spanish newspaper AS {that a} poor Aston Martin automotive in 2026 would spur him to maintain going even longer.
“I do know it’s my final likelihood,” Alonso mentioned about F1’s new technical period subsequent yr, with revamped chassis and engine laws. “If the automotive is weak, I would go yet one more yr simply to finish on a optimistic observe. If the automotive is powerful, 2026 will most likely be my final yr.”
Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin Racing
Picture by: Glenn Dunbar / LAT Photographs by way of Getty Photographs
Cowell has nevertheless clarified to Motorsport.com that no such talks have taken place but with the Spanish veteran inside the Aston Martin squad.
“I’ve not had any conversations with him about that,” Cowell mentioned. “His conversations with me over the previous yr have been all targeted on 2026. Lance [Stroll] is precisely the identical, which ends up in a painful 2025 season, however we’re placing all our effort and give attention to 2026.
“I assume Fernando is pondering in direction of the again finish of 2026 and what to do, however we’re simply pushing onerous to be sure that we’re in the very best place for 2026, 2027 and past. Fernando has proven that he is an outstanding competitor. Age does not appear to be a difficulty for him. His age appears to be a energy!”
Alonso already is F1’s oldest grand prix starter since Graham Hill on the 1975 Brazilian Grand Prix, in addition to its oldest race chief, fastest-lap achiever and podium finisher since Michael Schumacher in 2011-2012.
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