The domino effect is ready to begin. Despite being 44 years old and enduring a difficult season in terms of results, Fernando Alonso continues to exert enormous influence over the Formula 1 driver market. It is one of the most fascinating paradoxes of the modern paddock: a driver who often finds himself fighting merely to escape Q1 remains one of the central figures around whom several teams are building their future strategies.
The situation is linked not only to the prestige Alonso has accumulated over more than two decades in Formula 1, but also to the widespread belief that the Spaniard’s talent is still capable of making a decisive difference. For that reason, his next career move is being closely monitored by much of the midfield.
Alonso’s contract with Aston Martin expires at the end of the season, and the two-time world champion does not appear willing to make a decision before the summer. The timing coincides with a crucial period for the Silverstone-based team, which is preparing a major technical upgrade package for its car, alongside further progress from the Honda power unit.
A summer that could change everything
Signals emerging from within Aston Martin suggest that Fernando Alonso is leaning towards continuing his Formula 1 career beyond 2026. At the same time, however, the weight of several seasons spent away from the front of the grid remains an important factor in his decision-making process.
Aston Martin remains the most likely destination. After all, when Alonso renewed his contract in 2024, he described the project as a genuine “life project.” Nevertheless, there are indications that at least one other team may have expressed interest in securing the Spaniard’s services, with Alpine frequently mentioned among the possibilities, although it remains unclear how serious that interest may be.
Alonso’s choice will affect far more than his own future. Several teams are waiting to understand his intentions before finalising their plans for 2027. Until the Asturian commits to a decision, part of the driver market is likely to remain frozen.
Haas monitors young talent while planning for the future
While much of the paddock waits for Alonso’s next move, some teams are already laying the foundations for future seasons through TPC programmes, the testing sessions reserved for previous-generation Formula 1 cars.
One of those teams is Haas, which recently evaluated both Leonardo Fornaroli and Ryo Hirakawa during a test session at Jerez. The objective was to determine whether either driver could become a credible option should the American team eventually decide to revise its current line-up of Ollie Bearman and Esteban Ocon.
Fornaroli continues to attract attention throughout the paddock. McLaren has reportedly been particularly impressed by his recent performances. Given that Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri appear firmly established as McLaren’s long-term driver pairing, it is possible that the young Italian could be loaned to another team to continue his development.
Haas has already demonstrated its willingness to invest in young talent through Ollie Bearman and could once again choose a similar path if either Fornaroli or Hirakawa confirms their potential.
Cadillac and Alpine appear closer to making decisions
While some teams are evaluating changes, others seem increasingly inclined towards continuity. That appears to be the case at Cadillac, which, despite the challenges faced by Valtteri Bottas this season, is not currently expected to alter its driver line-up.
The contributions of Bottas and Sergio Perez extend well beyond race results. Their experience has been viewed as essential to supporting the growth of the new American operation, which has already exceeded many initial expectations and is laying solid foundations for the future. As things stand, there are no clear signs suggesting a major overhaul for 2027.
The situation at Alpine is different but equally intriguing. The French team has become one of the most attractive midfield destinations after committing significant resources to the 2026 regulations earlier than many of its rivals. The resulting progress has increased the team’s appeal and made its second seat particularly valuable.
Pierre Gasly is already under contract until the end of 2028, while Franco Colapinto is fighting to secure his long-term future. The Argentine has enjoyed an impressive season, scoring points in four of the last six Grands Prix and significantly strengthening his position within the team.
Flavio Briatore has hinted that continuity remains Alpine’s preferred option. If Colapinto maintains his current level of performance and his partnership with Gasly continues to function well, Alpine could retain its existing line-up. A final decision is expected before the summer break.
In a market that still appears relatively quiet on the surface, the name influencing almost every scenario remains Fernando Alonso. His decision could become the first piece in a domino effect that reshapes several key elements of Formula 1’s future competitive landscape.
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