F1 legend Fernando Alonso has given his ideas on the thought of racing into his 50s as he seems to be to benefit from the ultimate years of his profession with Aston Martin
Fernando Alonso has made it clear that he does not see himself driving into his 50s like Lewis Hamilton has predicted. The 43-year-old Spaniard insists he has no plans to remain on the grid at that age, as an alternative selecting to take issues “year-by-year” from this level ahead.
Again in 2023, Hamilton – now 40 – adopted a “by no means say by no means” angle when requested about racing into his 50s, even suggesting that each he and his long-time rival might nonetheless be on the observe of their sixth decade. Alonso, nonetheless, is adamant that will not be case.
“I do not see myself [competing in F1] at 50,” the Aston Martin veteran – and two-time world champion – informed formula1.com. “I’ll drive so long as I really feel quick and aggressive and the group wants me on the wheel… That is why we saved open the chance as properly.”
Alonso, who turns 44 in July, has had a troublesome begin to the 2025 season, having but to earn a single level. He is the oldest competitor on the grid, boasting 22 full seasons of top-level expertise.
This marketing campaign additionally marks 20 years since his first championship triumph, and whereas the AMR25 has underperformed, his love for racing remains to be evident. Alonso is looking forward to the group’s future, particularly with famend engineer Adrian Newey now of their ranks and a significant overhaul of rules arriving in 2026.
“I needed to race this yr for positive and subsequent yr for positive due to the change of rules. However after 2026, I do not know. I’ll go season by season. I’ll see how I really feel, how motivated I’m,” he stated. “Now I’m very motivated, however I can’t assure that for 3 or 4 years and compromise the group. So we stated let’s do it till the top of 2026.”
Alonso’s honesty underscores his dedication to Aston Martin’s long-term success, a group he believes is constructing towards changing into championship contenders. He has additionally expressed a willingness to contribute in any approach attainable.
“We will sit and discuss actually between all of us and examine what’s finest for the group. I’ll at all times be ready to assist the group with no matter they want,” he insisted. “If it is behind the wheel, I’ll prolong the contract in the event that they suppose that approach, and I really feel motivated.”
He continued: “My contract is for much longer than my racing profession, so I’ll stick with this group for a lot of, a few years in a distinct position. If meaning we are able to win a World Championship even after I’m not behind the wheel, I’ll nonetheless really feel very pleased with the challenge.”
Though outcomes have been laborious to come back by these days, Alonso stays enthusiastic in regards to the group’s improvement. “I did take pleasure in 2023, being aggressive. And I do take pleasure in now the method that we’re in and the constructing of this group of the longer term,” he stated.
His determination to depart Alpine for Aston Martin in 2023 was based mostly on the idea that the group provided a extra promising short-term path to victory, particularly contemplating his restricted remaining time within the sport. “I haven’t got a long-term future, I can’t race without end,” he admitted.
Pushed by a need to win extra races – and probably a 3rd championship – Alonso stays sharply targeted. Nonetheless, if he begins to really feel a drop in efficiency or motivation, he will not hesitate to make approach. “If I do not really feel quick sufficient, I would be the first one to boost my hand,” he burdened.
A minimum of via 2026, Alonso is totally dedicated, betting on the regulation adjustments and Newey’s arrival to raise Aston Martin’s standing. Whereas Hamilton retains the door open for a protracted profession, Alonso’s technique is extra measured: race with goal, assist the group’s ascent, and bow out on his personal phrases – properly earlier than turning 50.
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