Fernando Alonso hints at F1 retirement date after historic contract

Fernando Alonso, Saudi Arabia GP, Aston Martin, 2024 — Photo: © IMAGO

F1 Legends

Alonso hints at F1 retirement date after historic contract

Fernando Alonso has recently signed a new contract with Aston Martin

Sam Cook Digital Journalist

Sports Journalist who has been covering motorsport since 2023

Thursday 18 April 2024 20:57

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A Formula 1 legend has suggested that his current contract in the sport may be his last, hinting at a 2026 retirement.

Fernando Alonso recently signed a new long-term deal with his Aston Martin team, keeping him in the sport until at least 2026, when the Spaniard will turn 45.

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Despite his age, Alonso is still regarded as one of the best drivers on the grid, and recently claimed that his 2023 season - where he claimed eight podium finishes - was his 'best season ever'.

The Spaniard has also started 2024 in strong fashion, achieving a points finish in all four races so far, despite the struggles of team-mate Lance Stroll.

Fernando Alonso secured eight podiums in 2023

Fernando Alonso has recently signed a new contract

Alonso suggests new contract his last

Now, Alonso has opened up on the decision-making process surrounding his new contract, a contract that will take him beyond the sweeping new regulation changes coming to the sport in 2026.

The Silverstone-based outfit have ambitious targets to challenge for the world championship in that particular year, and wanted Alonso to be a part of that process.

“It's never an easy moment when you have to make decisions, especially in a moment like this," Alonso told media ahead of the Chinese Grand Prix.

"For me it's probably the last contract, so I wanted to make sure it was the right decision to continue racing in Formula 1, to have the strength and motivation to continue racing for a few more years.

"I think the new regulations in 2026 will give everyone a chance to have an opportunity and mix it up a bit. We will be with Honda, the only team with its own power unit, which is obviously different from being a customer team as happens now with Mercedes. We hope to have a small improvement."