Alonso Stays with Aston Martin: 'The Fire Inside' Continues to Burn

Fernando Alonso has decided to extend his Formula 1 career with Aston Martin into the 2027 season, driven by a passion that remains undiminished even after 24 seasons. As he gears up for another year with the British outfit, Alonso speaks candidly about the 'fire inside' that keeps him in the cockpit.

Following a period of speculation about his future, Alonso's contract extension was announced just ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix, held this year in Malaysia. This means Aston Martin will continue with an unchanged driver line-up, with Lance Stroll also staying on for his ninth season.

Alonso, who has always been vocal about his competitive spirit, reiterated his belief in his own abilities during a media session in Sepang. "I still feel competitive," he said. "The moment I sit out, watching the races from my couch would be difficult because I feel the need to be behind the wheel. That moment hasn't come yet."

Alonso took a break from F1 between 2019 and 2020—a decision he admits he began to regret as soon as he started watching races from home. "I wasn't happier on the couch than on the circuit," Alonso reflected. "I felt I should go back racing because I still belong on the track. That thought came back recently, and I realized I should be racing for at least another year."

The two-time World Champion acknowledges that the team has had a tough 2026 season but remains optimistic about the future. "You never know," he said, with a touch of realism. "All teams are optimistic in October and November, but reality hits in March."

Alonso is not interested in empty promises. Instead, he stresses the importance of discipline and motivation within the team, especially concerning the power unit. "It's not about promising different things—it's about making sure everyone gives 100% and that we are all motivated, moving in the same direction."

As for his future beyond racing, Alonso hasn't ruled out a different role within Aston Martin. "The moment I stop racing, that option will start, and we will discuss," he noted. But for now, his focus remains on enjoying each race and feeling competitive. "It's not about thinking about my age or records," Alonso said. "It's about feeling good and fast behind the wheel. That day I no longer feel that, that's when I'll call it off."

In the meantime, Alonso remains an integral part of Aston Martin, eager to see what the next season will bring while continuing to fuel the fire that has kept him racing for more than two decades.