Fernando Alonso has completed a test with Prodrive in Morocco, adding fresh intrigue to speculation over a possible return to the Dakar Rally in 2027 despite having recently ruled out taking part. The two-time Formula 1 world champion had said during the Singapore Grand Prix weekend that the famous rally-raid was “not compatible” with his F1 commitments, but his latest off-road running suggests the idea has not disappeared completely.
Fernando Alonso is set to remain in Formula 1 next season after renewing with Aston Martin, making the timing of any Dakar participation particularly complicated. Even so, the Spaniard has continued to test machinery linked to rally-raid competition, keeping alive the possibility of another attempt at one of motorsport’s toughest events.
Fernando Alonso tests with Prodrive in Morocco
Spanish journalist Gerard Farré published exclusive images on Instagram showing Fernando Alonso testing in Morocco on Friday at the wheel of a Prodrive vehicle.
Both the car and Fernando Alonso’s overalls were completely black, adding to the discreet nature of the test.
Prodrive has previously worked with Dacia on its Dakar programme. The British engineering company is now reportedly preparing for a possible participation in the event under the Aston Martin name, a development that inevitably strengthens the connection with Fernando Alonso.
For readers following the wider career of the Spaniard, Fernando Alonso’s Formula 1 career and statistics underline just how many different eras of the championship he has already competed through, alongside his ventures into other major categories of motorsport.
Alonso had ruled out the 2027 Dakar in Singapore
The Morocco test comes only shortly after Fernando Alonso appeared to close the door on a Dakar entry next year.
During the Singapore Grand Prix weekend, he categorically ruled out competing in the 2027 edition, describing the rally as “not compatible” with the Formula 1 World Championship schedule.
That statement appeared definitive, especially because Fernando Alonso will again be racing for Aston Martin in F1 next season. His latest testing programme, however, means the possibility of a return cannot yet be completely dismissed.
Fernando Alonso already raced the Dakar in 2020
Fernando Alonso is no stranger to the Dakar Rally. He competed in the event in 2020 and finished 13th overall, while also coming close to securing what would have been a historic stage victory.
In subsequent years, the Spaniard has repeatedly said that he would like to compete in the legendary rally-raid again, but only when he felt genuinely ready and capable of being competitive.
The test in Morocco does not automatically confirm that Fernando Alonso will enter the 2027 Dakar. It does, however, demonstrate that off-road competition remains part of his programme and that the prospect of another attempt is still being explored.
Morocco could become relevant to the 2027 Dakar
The 2027 Dakar Rally is currently scheduled to take place in Saudi Arabia from 1 to 15 January 2027.
However, tensions across the Middle East have created the possibility that the event could be moved if organisers decide that Saudi Arabia is no longer suitable for safety reasons.
If a relocation became necessary, Morocco would reportedly be the leading alternative.
That detail gives Fernando Alonso’s latest test an additional layer of interest. Morocco is already a key location for rally-raid preparation, but it could potentially become even more relevant if the 2027 Dakar were forced to change venue.
Alonso’s Dakar return remains possible, not confirmed
For now, there is still an important distinction between testing and committing to the event. Fernando Alonso’s public position remains that the 2027 Dakar does not fit with his Formula 1 obligations, and no official entry has been announced.
At the same time, the Prodrive test confirms that he is continuing to work in an environment directly connected to rally-raid competition.
After his first Dakar attempt in 2020 and repeated comments about wanting to return when the conditions were right, the Morocco running ensures that speculation surrounding a second appearance will continue.
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