F1 News: Fernando Alonso Eyed For Audi's 2026 Debut

Alfa Romeo has its sights set on Fernando Alonso for Audi's first Formula 1 season.

Alfa Romeo's representative, Alessandro Alunni Bravi, has expressed keen interest in recruiting Fernando Alonso for Audi's debut Formula 1 driver line-up in 2026. The team will take over the existing Alfa Romeo (Sauber) team, entering the sport under the new regulations.

Speculation has been swirling about who will lead Audi's team, given their status as a works manufacturer. Carlos Sainz has been a prominent name in recent discussions, especially due to his prior connection with Sauber CEO Andreas Seidl, who previously worked at McLaren.

Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, Alunni Bravi affirmed his willingness to sign Fernando Alonso, even at 45 years or older. He had the opportunity to observe Alonso closely during their time together at McLaren, where Alunni Bravi managed Stoffel Vandoorne, Alonso's former teammate. Witnessing Alonso's day-to-day work ethic, skill, and determination firsthand left a lasting impression on Alunni Bravi.

"He is a champion. You don't win two F1 World titles if you don't have certain characteristics. It's a pleasure for me to see him," Alunni Bravi remarked.

The upcoming 2025 season will be crucial in the driver market, with several big names, including Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc, approaching the end of their contracts. While current driver Valtteri Bottas has a contract for next year, Zhou Guanyu is expected to continue with the team for a third season if he maintains his current performance.

Alunni Bravi emphasized their satisfaction with the current driver pairing and their commitment to providing them with competitive equipment.

"We are satisfied with our current driver pairing, and our aim is to give them competitive material.

"Obviously, I think Carlos Sainz is one of the best drivers currently in F1. He drives for Ferrari, and I think he is happy at Ferrari. We have to think about our drivers and give them all the tools to do a good job."

As Audi prepares to enter the Formula 1 scene, the potential recruitment of Fernando Alonso adds an exciting dimension to their plans. The Canadian Grand Prix, scheduled for June 16-18, holds even more significance now, as fans eagerly await updates on the driver line-up for Audi's maiden season in the pinnacle of motorsport.