Two-time world champion Fernando Alonso in the paddock - Photo: Race Pictures

Aston Martin caught off guard amid Alonso's F1 retirement deadline

13:31, 15 Oct

Updated: 14:08, 15 Oct

byNorberto Mujica

Aston Martin team principal Andy Cowell says he has not discussed Fernando Alonso’s retirement plans, denying being privy to reports that the Spaniard is considering ending his Formula 1 career after the 2026 season.

Fernando has shown that he’s a phenomenal competitor. Age doesn’t seem to be an issue for him. His age seems to be a strength.

- Andy Cowell

Alonso, a two-time world champion and F1’s most experienced driver with 419 starts, recently told AS that his future could depend on the team’s performance under the new technical regulations.

“I know it’s my last chance,” Alonso said. “If the car is weak, I might go one more year just to end on a positive note. If the car is strong, 2026 will probably be my last year.”

Cowell has now clarified that no such discussions have taken place within Aston Martin. “I’ve not had any conversations with him about that,” he told Autosport.

“His conversations with me over the past year have been all focused on 2026. Lance [Stroll] is exactly the same, which results in a painful 2025 season, but we are putting all our effort and focus on 2026.”

The Aston Martin boss added that Alonso remains committed and competitive as the team targets improvement ahead of the next regulation cycle.

“I guess Fernando is thinking towards the back end of 2026 and what to do, but we’re just pushing hard to make sure that we’re in the best possible place for 2026, 2027 and beyond.

"Fernando has shown that he’s a phenomenal competitor. Age doesn’t seem to be an issue for him. His age seems to be a strength,” Cowell concluded.

Alonso reveals how he'd like to see out his F1 retirement

The Spanish driver recently mentioned that he would like to know in advance of his departure from Formula One. Why? You can read his statements here.

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