F1 CEO wants Alonso to remain in the competition after Barcelona admission

During the media day at the circuit near Montmeló, Alonso explained during the FIA press conference that this would be his final Formula 1 race at the venue.

The former two-time world champion commented: "Sure. It's going to be a special weekend, probably my last Barcelona race in Formula 1. So, I want to say thanks to everyone. I will try to enjoy the weekend. I will not be competitive and I will not be too long in the car in qualifying, and in the race hopefully yes, but not at the pace that we all want. But I want everyone to still enjoy the weekend. It has been always a celebration when they come to Barcelona. I think it's my 23rd Spanish Grand Prix, and all of them have been magical. And this last has to be magical as well."

That does not mean Alonso will not compete in Formula 1 next season, as the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix will enter a rotation with Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps and will not be held again until 2028.

Speaking to Spanish newspaper AS, the Formula 1 CEO hopes that the Aston Martin stays in the competition as long as possible. The two also know each other well, given that Domencali was Ferrari's team principal when Alonso competed for the Italian outfit.

The Italian explained: "I suffer for Alonso, because I have so much respect for him and I know he’s fantastic. But I also know he’s a resilient person. He’ll have the opportunity, I hope, if he’s given a good car, to demonstrate the talent he has. His mentality is one of fearless commitment, at every level. He needs the right project. I hope it’s here, and not just for a year, but for a long time.”

When asked about what the competition would lose if the Spaniard leaves, he added: "This is not the moment to talk about this because I want to see him here for a long time."

Recently, rumors surfaced about Alonso returning to Alpine. The Spaniard was spotted in the company of Flavio Briatore last weekend is seen by some media as a signal. However, at this moment, that can be dismissed as typical paddock speculation.

It should not be forgotten, however, that Briatore has been the two-time world champion’s manager for some time. A conversation between the two is anything but unusual. GPblog understands that the team is currently aiming to continue with Colapinto for 2027 alongside the experienced Pierre Gasly.