Flavio Briatore, Fernando Alonso’s long-time manager, has expressed uncertainty regarding whether the two-time Formula 1 champion will continue racing beyond his current contract with Aston Martin, which runs through 2026. Alonso, who is the oldest and most experienced driver on the grid with a record 391 F1 starts, has consistently proven that he still possesses the drive and skill to compete at the highest level, despite being 42 years old.
Alonso’s return to Formula 1 in 2021 with Alpine, followed by his move to Aston Martin in 2023, has been marked by impressive performances, including eight podium finishes last season. His ability to capitalize on Aston Martin’s competitiveness has shown that he remains a formidable force in the sport. However, as his current contract extends to 2026, when new regulations will be introduced and Aston Martin begins its partnership with Honda, questions about his future in the sport are starting to arise.
Briatore, who returned to Alpine as an Executive Advisor, acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding Alonso’s future plans during an appearance on the Formula For Success podcast. He highlighted Alonso’s intelligence and strategic approach in races, such as his smart one-stop strategy at Spa, which underscored the value of his experience. However, when asked about Alonso’s plans after 2026, Briatore admitted he was unsure if the Spaniard would choose to continue racing beyond that point.
“The performance is there,” Briatore said. “He’s qualifying well, he’s racing well. It’s not a question of him losing concentration. During the race, he’s always there.”
Briatore noted that Alonso’s decision would depend on several factors, including his passion for racing, his life circumstances at the time, and whether he still feels the same drive. Despite the uncertainty, Briatore praised Alonso’s unmatched determination and commitment, qualities that have sustained his long and successful career.
Alonso himself has shown no signs of slowing down. Prior to the 2024 season, he revealed that his winter test results were the best of his career, a testament to his dedication to fitness and preparation. Briatore emphasized Alonso’s disciplined approach to training and diet, noting that the driver is perhaps in better shape now than ever before.
“Fernando is still motivated like a young driver,” Briatore added. “He’s super fit, maybe more fit now than when he was driving for me. He’s living in Monaco, doing 60-80 kilometers on his bike every day, and going to the gym. He’s very, very careful with his diet. He’s unbelievable.”
As Alonso continues to push boundaries in F1, the decision about his future remains an open question. Whether he chooses to retire after 2026 or extend his remarkable career even further, Alonso’s legacy as one of the sport’s greats is already firmly established.
Photo from Fernando Alonso Instagram
