Fernando Alonso will race into a record-breaking 24th Formula 1 season after confirming he will extend his career with Aston Martin. The 45-year-old Spanish driver, who debuted in 2001 and has started 440 races, announced his decision in a video detailing his ongoing motivation and confidence in the team’s future despite a difficult campaign.
Fernando Alonso Extends Formula 1 Career Into 24th Season
Alonso’s career spans more than two decades across six different constructors: Minardi, Renault, Ferrari, McLaren, Alpine, and Aston Martin. During that time, he secured two world drivers’ championships with Renault in 2005 and 2006. In his announcement video, Alonso reflected on his longevity in motorsport’s top tier.
“Formula 1 has been kind to me. I’ve had an amazing career, racing for over twenty years in more than 400 races,” Alonso said in the video. “I’ve achieved everything I ever dreamed of. I needed a little time to consider my future, but now I see everything completely clearly. I will finish in Formula 1… but not now. I still feel fast and motivated.”
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Struggles in Season and Confidence in Aston Martin
Despite his long-term commitment, the current season has presented significant hurdles. Alonso has struggled at the back of the grid due to technical issues, collecting just three points across the first 15 Grands Prix. His last podium appearance came at the 2023 Brazilian Grand Prix.
Speaking to BBC Sport, Alonso explained that his inner belief is what drives him to keep competing. “The most important reason why I continue is my self-confidence. I still believe I have something extra,” Alonso told BBC Sport. “Even though we are not competitive now, I often leave the races inwardly satisfied because I see how others drive and what mistakes they make. Then I tell myself that I could do it better in their car.”
Alonso added that he is willing to accept racing out of the spotlight while the team develops a competitive package. “People will only remember you when you achieve something and stand on the podium. Now I am reconciled with the fact that we are basically invisible and nobody notices us. We are preparing for the moment of truth and I think it will be a big surprise for everyone then,” he said.
Aston Martin Lineup and 2027 Grid Status
Aston Martin will retain its driver pairing for the upcoming season, keeping Alonso alongside Canadian teammate Lance Stroll. Both drivers have raced for the squad since 2023 under multi-year contracts whose exact lengths remain undisclosed.
With Alonso and Stroll locked in, the Formula 1 grid for the 2027 season is nearly finalized. Only two teams, Haas and Racing Bulls, have yet to officially confirm their full driver lineups for the upcoming championship.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Fernando Alonso’s F1 Future
How many Formula 1 seasons has Fernando Alonso raced in?
Alonso is set to compete in his record-extending 24th season in Formula 1, having started his career in 2001.
Which teams has Fernando Alonso driven for in his career?
Throughout his career, Alonso has raced for Minardi, Renault, Ferrari, McLaren, Alpine, and Aston Martin.
Who is Fernando Alonso’s teammate at Aston Martin?
Alonso’s teammate is Lance Stroll, with whom he has partnered at Aston Martin since the 2023 season.
How many world championships has Fernando Alonso won?
Alonso has won two Formula 1 drivers’ world championships, securing titles with Renault in 2005 and 2006.
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