Aston Martin’s announcement of Alonso’s contract extension was a concise declaration: “I am here to stay!” However, shortly after, the team organized an unexpected Zoom meeting with the press, including GrandPrix247, during which the Spaniard discussed his future following the renewal of his contract.
“I desired to continue racing with Aston Martin,” Alonso expressed. “I wanted to demonstrate my loyalty. We have achieved numerous impressive results in a remarkably short period of time. It couldn’t be better. The team has exceptional partners. It felt like a natural decision to continue racing.”
Alonso joined Aston Martin for the 2023 F1 season, taking over Sebastian Vettel’s position. This season marked the second year under the current ground-effect aero regulations, with Aston Martin initially possessing the second fastest car behind Red Bull.
During his debut season with the team, Alonso secured eight podium finishes. Although their performance declined as the season progressed, they have begun the 2024 season in a steady, albeit unremarkable, manner.
With Lewis Hamilton’s announcement of his move to Ferrari in 2025 even before the 2024 F1 season commenced, the Silly Season, in which Alonso played a significant role, began earlier than usual.
While Alonso hinted at his interest in driving for Mercedes in 2025, and the confirmation of Sergio Perez’s seat at Red Bull is still pending, the two-time F1 champion decided to remain with Aston Martin after briefly exploring other options.
“I did have conversations with other individuals,” Alonso disclosed. “It’s a standard procedure to listen to all proposals. I had many things to consider and numerous options. Ultimately, I felt most valued at Aston Martin. Other teams did not have a definitive decision to offer,” he asserted.
Indeed, Mercedes has yet to disclose their plans for Hamilton’s replacement, and it is likely that Red Bull will retain Perez, especially if he maintains his current level of performance.
Alonso hinted at his intention to continue racing well into his forties, stating, “It was a significant moment to commit to a long-term project. A one-year project did not seem logical to me.”
In my initial conversation with Aston, I made it perfectly clear. Aston Martin has been progressing, with the establishment of a new campus last year and the addition of a new wind tunnel. The partnership with Honda is also a significant development. Joining the sport in 2026, alongside Honda, was a top priority for me.
Partnering with Honda and Aramco, two of the most exceptional entities in the world, is a remarkable opportunity. We will have state-of-the-art facilities, including a new wind tunnel, at Silverstone. This project extends beyond 2026; it is a lifelong commitment. It is the longest-term agreement I have ever signed in my career.
As for how long I will continue to drive, it is difficult to predict. I am certain that I will not retire in 2025 or 2026, as one of my motivations is to work with Honda. I will give my best effort to be competitive and achieve victories with the team. However, if there comes a time when I feel I am no longer fast or sharp in qualifying, I have an open and honest relationship with Aston, and I will step aside.
Nevertheless, I believe that moment is far in the future. I recently had my best race just five events ago. I do not anticipate any issues. Lewis Hamilton will turn 40, and I will also reach that age.
Throughout my extensive F1 career, I have participated in 382 Grands Prix, securing two Championships, 32 race wins, and 22 pole positions. My most recent victory was at the 2013 Spanish Grand Prix with Ferrari. (Reported by Agnes Carlier)