Formula 1 Saudi Arabian GP
Fernando Alonso issues clear F1 retirement message
Fernando Alonso has insisted he remains motivated to continue racing in Formula 1 and hopes the 2026 season will not be his last
Lydia Mee
Published: Apr 26, 2026, 9:23 PM
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Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin Racing
Photo by: Sam Bloxham / LAT Images via Getty Images
Two-time Formula 1 champion Fernando Alonso has shared an update on his future in the series, claiming that he is still motivated and that he hopes this is not his final season.
At 44 years old, Alonso is the oldest driver on the current grid. He made his F1 debut at the 2001 Australian Grand Prix and has driven for teams such as Minardi, Renault, McLaren, Ferrari and Alpine. Now, the Spaniard drives for Aston Martin and has done since 2023.
While the Silverstone outfit has got off to a troublesome start to the 2026 season, Alonso has insisted that he will know when it is the right time to call it a day, but he still loves what he does.
"I love what I do. I love racing. I did my first race when I was three years [old], and I am 44, so 41 years of my life I have been behind a steering wheel," Alonso said during the Historic Grand Prix of Monaco.
"So the moment I have to stop racing, it will be a very hard decision and difficult to accept.
Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin Racing
Photo by: Sam Bloxham / LAT Images via Getty Images
"The time will tell. I will feel it. At the moment, I don't feel it is that time yet. I feel competitive, I feel motivated, I feel happy when I drive. So, yeah, hopefully not the last season."
As Aston Martin battles against issues with its 2026 challenger and its Honda power unit, Alonso and his team-mate Lance Stroll trail at the back of the drivers' standings in 21st and 22nd, respectively.
After a five-week break due to the cancellation of the Saudi Arabian and Bahrain Grands Prix, the F1 paddock is heading to the United States for the Miami Grand Prix at Hard Rock Stadium from 1 to 3 May.
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