Fernando Alonso hints at 2026 F1 retirement pending Aston Martin performance

Fernando Alonso, the two-time Formula 1 World Champion, has indicated that the 2026 season could mark his retirement depending on Aston Martin's competitiveness under the sport's new technical regulations. At 44, Alonso is currently F1's oldest driver and has not won a race since 2013 but remains driven to achieve success, especially with Aston Martin's recent investments and the high-profile signing of designer Adrian Newey. Alonso has expressed that if the 2026 car performs well, he is likely to retire that year, but if the car struggles, he might continue for another season to finish on a positive note. He also noted that Aston Martin might reach peak performance stability in 2027 or 2028 given Newey's influence and team cohesion. Despite a challenging 2025 season, Alonso's focus is on the upcoming regulation changes that blend internal combustion and electric power, which could reshape competitive dynamics. His decision to retire will also depend on his physical and mental condition, with a desire to leave F1 while still considered among the best.