Fernando Alonso finishes three laps down in grueling Austrian GP nightmare for Aston Martin. Aston Martin still searching for answers after disappointing Austrian Grand Prix.

Alonso last in Austria: “Another difficult weekend for us, but nothing unexpected”

Another disappointment.

The 2026 Formula 1 season has now become a genuine sporting nightmare for Aston Martin. Once again, the team found itself not only far from the ambitious targets it set before the season began, but also unable to compete for points. The Austrian Grand Prix provided yet another reminder of the team’s difficult situation, with both Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll enduring another frustrating weekend.

Three laps behind the winner

Unlike his previous race at his home Grand Prix, Fernando Alonso at least made it to the chequered flag at the Red Bull Ring. However, the two-time World Champion could do no better than 18th place, finishing last among the classified drivers and crossing the line three laps behind race winner George Russell.

“It was another difficult race weekend for us, but nothing unexpected,” said the former Renault, McLaren and Ferrari driver. “It was important to finish the race, continue collecting data and keep improving operationally. Over the last few weeks we’ve made progress in some of those areas, and we hope to continue in that direction so we’re ready when our upgrade package arrives. Now we’re looking ahead to our home race next week at Silverstone, where we’ll try to give our best in front of our fans.”

Stroll’s race ended even earlier

The weekend proved even more disappointing for Lance Stroll. On lap 45, the Canadian was forced to retire due to a technical problem, leaving Aston Martin to shift its focus to this weekend’s British Grand Prix at its home circuit of Silverstone.

“I felt comfortable in the car today and really enjoyed my second stint because we managed the tyres well. We knew we weren’t going to be fighting anyone, but it was a fun battle between Fernando and me. Unfortunately, we had what appears to be an ERS issue that we need to investigate, and we had to retire the car. We know this is a very difficult period for everyone in the team, but everyone is working as hard as possible to bring the upgrades to the car. We have to stay patient, and hopefully in a few races we’ll be a little more competitive.”