Aston Martin F1 News: Fernando Alonso Confirms Racing Future In New Multi-Year Deal
Aston Martin has today announced that two-time F1 champion Fernando Alonso has signed a new multi-year contract with the British team. The contract, which is reported to be until the end of the 2026 season, has put to bed the ongoing rumors linking the Spanish driver to a move to Red Bull or Mercedes.
Key Takeaways:
- Fernando Alonso's commitment to Aston Martin has been solidified through a contract extension that will see him with the team until the end of 2026, dispelling any speculation about his future.
- Alonso's decision to remain with the team led by Lawrence Stroll is the next major move in this season's driver market, indicating a strong belief in the team's future prospects.
- Aston Martin team principal, Mike Krack, highlighted the mutual trust and ambition between Alonso and the team, praising Alonso's dedication and exceptional form as foundational to the team's aspirations.
Jun 18, 2023; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Aston Martin driver Fernando Alonso (ESP) stands on the podium
David Kirouac-USA TODAY Sports
Aston Martin's announcement brings a close to the intense speculation regarding Fernando Alonso's future, as the team confirms his stay until 2026 through a multi-year contract extension. This move ensures the retention of Alonso's invaluable experience and skillset amidst a notably volatile driver market, with top teams like Red Bull and Mercedes on the lookout for new talent.
Alonso had previously mentioned his possible retirement. However, the contract extension proves the 42-year-old is here to stay for a few more years at least. Expressing his pleasure over the deal, team principal Mike Krack stated, as quoted by Motorsport:
"Securing Fernando's long-term future with Aston Martin Aramco is fantastic news.
"We have built a strong working relationship over the last 18 months and we share the same determination to see this project succeed.
"We have been in constant dialogue over the last few months and Fernando has been true to his word: when he decided he wanted to continue racing, he talked to us first. Fernando has shown he believes in us, and we believe in him.
"Fernando is hungry for success, driving better than ever, is fitter than ever, and is completely dedicated to making Aston Martin Aramco a competitive force."
Aston Martin is set to embark on an engine partnership with Honda from 2026 as the latter moves away from Red Bull. Questions had previously been asked about the possibility of Alonso working with Honda given their tumultuous history, however, the contract extension has squashed those concerns. Krack continued:
"This multi-year agreement with Fernando takes us into 2026 when we begin our works power unit partnership with Honda. We look forward to creating more incredible memories and achieving further success together.
"We have built a strong working relationship over the last 18 months and we share the same determination to see this project succeed.
"Fernando has shown he believes in us, and we believe in him."