Stroll does not rule out Alonso contract until '26: "Anything is possible"

Age is just a number. Fernando Alonso is a prime example of this: the Spaniard is now 42 years old, but in terms of motivation and fighting spirit he is certainly not inferior to his younger colleagues. It is therefore certainly not out of the question that he will extend his contract at Aston Martin after next year, according to team owner Lawrence Stroll.

With seven podium finishes in the 2023 Formula 1 season, a 33rd win for Alonso seemed a matter of time, but Aston Martin was overtaken by Mercedes, Ferrari and McLaren in terms of F1 car developments over the course of the season.

Whether that victory comes or not, Stroll remains overjoyed at the arrival of the two-time world champion. "He's brought a tremendous amount," he says in conversation with Sky Sports. "He's full of energy like he's 22 years old, he's very committed, extremely motivated, obviously hugely talented and a fantastic ambassador for the brand. He's been fantastic as a Formula 1 driver, so I'd say on and off the track he's been a fantastic ambassador for Aston Martin."

Alonso currently has a contract until 2024 with the Silverstone-based F1 team. If the deal were extended by two years, it would mean he would still be driving around in the premier class at the age of 45. "Anything is possible," Stroll Sr. said. "Right now he has a contract to drive for us next year and we're looking forward to that."