Two-time Formula 1 World Champion Fernando Alonso extended his congratulations to Max Verstappen after the Dutchman clinched his fourth consecutive title at the Las Vegas Grand Prix. But Alonso, never one to shy away from a challenge, also issued a bold proclamation: he hopes to personally take the fight to Verstappen when Formula 1 enters its new regulatory era in 2026.
Alonso: Verstappen’s Rivals Have Failed to Intimidate Him
Alonso, who finished a disappointing 11th in Las Vegas, had high praise for Verstappen’s ability to dominate a fiercely competitive season. However, the Spaniard was critical of Verstappen’s title challengers, suggesting they lacked the ability to rattle the Red Bull star.
“Everyone who has fought Max for championships so far hasn’t managed to intimidate him much,” Alonso told DAZN. “Hopefully it’s my turn someday, and I can change that story.”
The Aston Martin driver expressed admiration for Verstappen’s resilience and skill, particularly in a season where Red Bull’s RB20 wasn’t always the fastest car on the grid. But Alonso made it clear he’s looking ahead to the 2026 regulations, hinting at his intention to mount a serious challenge.
2026: Alonso’s Hope for a Title-Defining Duel
The 2026 season brings sweeping changes to Formula 1’s technical regulations, and Alonso’s Aston Martin team has a secret weapon: legendary car designer Adrian Newey. With Newey joining Aston Martin, Alonso is optimistic the team can deliver a championship-caliber car.
“Congratulations to Max,” Alonso said. “I hope to be there in 2026.”
Though Verstappen will undoubtedly remain a formidable force, Alonso’s aspirations signal a potential revival of the kind of intense, multi-season rivalries that have defined F1 history.
Recognition for Verstappen’s Stellar Season
Despite his competitive edge, Alonso didn’t hold back on praising Verstappen’s 2024 campaign, which he described as the Dutchman’s most impressive title yet.
“This one has to feel very special to him, I imagine, because the car is not maybe as dominant as last year,” Alonso remarked. “The best example is Brazil. What he did there was incredible.”
Verstappen’s performance in Brazil, where he surged from 17th to first in wet conditions, underscored his ability to overcome adversity and deliver when it matters most. Alonso acknowledged that Verstappen’s consistency and adaptability have set a high bar for the rest of the grid.
A Rivalry in the Making?
While Alonso remains focused on Aston Martin’s development for 2026, his comments highlight the hunger that still burns within the 43-year-old driver. If Aston Martin’s promise of a competitive car comes to fruition, Formula 1 fans could witness a tantalizing duel between two generational talents—Verstappen and Alonso.
For now, Verstappen remains at the peak of his powers, with his fourth title cementing his legacy. But with Alonso’s fighting spirit and Aston Martin’s ambitious plans, the stage may be set for an epic battle in the years to come.
