Is Fernando Alonso preparing to retire from Formula 1? Could the upcoming season be his last in the sport? The seven-time Grand Prix winner shared his thoughts, and Aston Martin team principal Andy Cowell offered his perspective on the matter.
Andy Cowell, CEO and team principal of Aston Martin, commented on Alonso’s statements about a possible retirement at the end of the 2026 season. Cowell agreed with the reasoning of his driver but still expressed some hesitation at the idea of losing the experience and speed of the Spanish champion.
Alonso’s retirement may be closer than expected: his words
Ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix, Fernando Alonso stated that if the 2026 season turns out to be very positive—also thanks to the introduction of new regulations—he would be more inclined to retire. When asked about his previous statements, Fernando Alonso added: “It was an interview about what I will do in 2026, and since I don’t have a crystal ball, I gave an answer that could stand forever.”
He continued: “I think this is how I feel for now, until May. If I have a car that I enjoy driving and that allows me to get results, maybe… I mean, I will always talk with Lawrence [Stroll] and the team about what they need; the team comes before me. I don’t need to race now to prove something.”
“I am happy with my career and consider myself very fortunate to have been here for so many years. Now it is time to help the team and have fun, so we’ll take it day by day and see what happens next year,” Alonso said. The Spanish driver also believes he is at the peak of his fitness: “Last year and this year, probably the car has not been where we deserve to be in the standings.”
“I think we had some problems that we managed, but they are not always visible from the outside. However, some of the performances this year and last year would not have been possible 20 years ago. That’s my opinion, and that’s why I am relaxed, happy, enjoying myself, and confident for next year.”
Andy Cowell’s response: “We all want to finish at the top”
Aston Martin team principal Andy Cowell said he fully understands Alonso’s mindset. During the press conference in Singapore, Cowell expressed his desire to keep the Spanish champion in the team while acknowledging his wish to conclude a long career at the top of the sport.
“I think all of this is tied to the fact that we all want to finish at the top. He wants to end his career winning races and delivering strong performances. That’s the essence of what he is saying,” Andy Cowell said. “He is a huge part of the team, extremely valuable to have with us, and even Lance [Stroll], this year and next, is providing an important contribution to the development of the 2026 car, simulator work, and car setup. But yes, I believe it comes down to this: Fernando’s last race on the top step of the podium. It’s everyone’s dream.”
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