Aston Martin Chief Opens Up On Fernando Alonso's F1 Future Amid Retirement Rumours

Aston Martin's team principal Mike Krack has addressed the swirling speculation around Fernando Alonso's future in Formula 1, shedding light on the Spanish driver's thoughts on retirement. Alonso, who is nearing the 43-year mark, recently vocalised the challenges posed by F1's demanding schedule, sparking conversations about his tenure in the sport.

Key Takeaways

• Fernando Alonso is contemplating retirement due to the physical and mental demands of Formula 1, influenced by the sport's longest-ever season.
• Despite nearing 43, Alonso's performance remains high, fueled by motivation and a rigorous fitness regime, but he acknowledges the need for total dedication to the sport.
• Alonso, a two-time world champion, is weighing his passion for racing against the exhaustive nature of F1 and other interests he wishes to explore.

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"Well, I think Fernando highlighted many times now that first he needs to be sure about himself, what he wants to do, because he's a driver that is not participating in Formula One," said the Aston Martin boss in today's press conference. "When he runs, he wants to be at the front. And the commitment that you need for that, I think he's very aware of it.

"So he needs to make up his mind first if he wants to stay. And then if that's the case, we will push or we give everything that he stays with us."

Alonso's reflections come in the wake of comments made to the BBC, where he spoke openly about the physical and mental toll of Formula 1's longest-ever season, spanning 24 races. Despite his age, Alonso's performance remains top-notch, fuelled by a robust motivation and enhanced fitness regime, supported by a new team nutritionist.

"Maybe I would have said 41 or 42 before. Now I can think maybe I can race for a few more years. So I would say if you are motivated and want to commit, you can drive until 48 or 49 or maybe even 50. But at the same time, you have to give up everything in life. F1 needs total dedication - I gave my life for this.

"I am happy with that and I can keep going for a few more years but I don't know if I will be racing until 50 with such a demanding calendar as that - not for the abilities but because there are other things in life I am curious [about]."

Alonso's illustrious career, highlighted by two world championships, is at a critical juncture. With the sport evolving and the calendar expanding, the veteran driver is at a crossroads, balancing his enduring zeal for racing against the exhaustive nature of the sport.