What Alonso’s F1 future depends on – and what the alternative is

What does 2027 hold in store for Fernando Alonso? The two-time world champion’s future beyond the end of this season remains uncertain at present. An announcement about retiring or another major decision would, of course, be well suited to a special race such as a home Grand Prix. However, Alonso had already revealed at Monza that he would not be saying anything about his future in Formula 1 whilst in Madrid. Now, at the media day in Madrid, the question was asked again: when can we expect news about his plans for 2027? Alonso: “Not any time soon.” Why the delay? Alonso cheekily replied: “It’s nice, isn’t it?”

Will Alonso remain behind the wheel? Or take on a new role?

Naturally, the journalists present weren’t satisfied with that. So came the next question. What’s the key factor? Alonso: “It’s a question of next year’s regulations and what impact they’ll have on the racing. The cars aren’t currently the best for enjoying races. But there’s already been a step in the right direction. I need to see what the best plan is. I’ll decide with the team whether it’s behind the wheel or in a new role. I’ll help as best I can. We’ll discuss that together.” There’s no time pressure.

An alternative in the World Endurance Championship?

Alonso is hopeful that the regulations for 2027 aren’t final yet – meaning Formula 1, the teams and the FIA might make further adjustments. “I’m still hopeful that this isn’t the final version.” When asked further: Could another programme within Aston Martin be an option for him, for example in the World Endurance Championship (WEC)? Alonso’s clear answer: “Yes.”

Speaking about the race at the brand-new Madring circuit, Alonso said: “It’s something special to race in Madrid. It’s a challenge to learn the circuit as quickly as possible. With the new cars, it’s difficult to release the power at the right moment. For me, it’s doubly special because it’s in Spain.” Alonso was born in Oviedo, just under 4.5 hours’ drive north-west of Madrid.

At any rate – things can only get better for Alonso and Aston Martin compared to the engine-intensive circuit at Monza, where they were left trailing behind and had to retire (Stroll) or pull out (Alonso). The Spaniard says with a laugh: “I expect to be more competitive at probably every circuit in the world than I was at Monza.”

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What is the key to success at the Madrid circuit? Alonso: “There’s a lot of driving over kerbs. It’s a big challenge. Grip will be a big question mark. Normally, a track like this would evolve significantly and you have to adapt. The most important thing will be to complete as many laps as possible and build confidence driving close to the walls.”

Spanish circuits suit Alonso

He’s done particularly well on Spanish circuits in the past. He’s won at both Barcelona and Valencia. Can he replicate that in Madrid? Alonso: “It would be nice, of course, but it won’t happen this year. We want to work on improving the car so that we can get closer to that in the future.” Next year, perhaps? Hmm.