Fernando Alonso makes his Aston Martin F1 decision

(Photo by Bryn Lennon - Formula 1/Formula 1 via Getty Images) | Formula 1 via Getty Images Fernando Alonso is coming back for another year on the Formula 1 grid. The veteran driver made the announcement on social media Tuesday morning, ending months of speculation about his future. At 45 years old, and with Aston Martin struggling this season, there was a thought that Alonso would use this time to walk away from the sport, given everything he has accomplished on the grid. While he will leave F1 at some point, that day is not coming just yet. A message from Fernando. pic.twitter.com/4qbPIoQRCe — Aston Martin Aramco F1 Team (@AstonMartinF1) September 29, 2026 The team confirmed that both Alonso and teammate Lance Stroll will be back for next season. Alonso’s decision to return to Aston Martin is a massive show of faith in the team, given the 2026 season to date. While there were hopes that Aston Martin would get off to a strong start under the new regulation set given the presence of Adrian Newey, one of the greatest engineers in the history of the sport, this season has been rather difficult for Alonso and all of Aston Martin. The year began with vibrations from the Honda power unit so severe that parts were quite literally falling off the AMR26. The vibrations were not only causing damage to the car, but creating a hazard for both Alonso and Stroll inside the car, preventing the drivers from completing full races at the start of the year. Upgrades have improved the AMR26, and a big upgrade package in recent weeks pulled Aston Martin closer to the midfield. However, Alonso and Stroll remain mired at the back of the grid, and reliability remains an issue for the AMR26. Alonso has scored just three points this year, his lowest total since his rookie season back in 2001. He has also retired from six races, the most in a single campaign since 2018, his last year with McLaren. But as he said in his video, he still feels “fast, motivated,” and with a “huge passion for Formula 1 and this sport.” “It is my life.” That life will continue into next season.

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