Fernando Alonso speaks on his retirement “2026 will probably be my last year”

Fernando Alonso has never been one to shy from the big questions. At 44 (soon to turn 45), with a long and storied career behind him, the two-time world champion knows that the next season may be pivotal. His recent remarks about the 2026 car, Aston Martin’s development, and his own future have stirred the paddock — and fans — into speculation: could next year be his swan song?

“Very Important”: The 2026 Car & Its Role in His Decision

Alonso has made clear that the form and competitiveness of the 2026 Aston Martin — under new technical regulations and with Honda as engine partner — will weigh heavily on his decision to stay or step away.

As he put it, the upcoming car will be “very important” when deciding whether to continue racing. He believes that if Aston Martin can deliver a genuinely competitive package, it presents an opportunity to exit on a high note, rather than linger in mediocrity.

He has reiterated what many had suspected: his retirement won’t come because he’s lost speed or desire, but rather because he wants to leave while still at the top of his game. He’s said that when he leaves F1, he wants to do so “as it is now” — meaning while still competitive.

This isn’t a departure rooted in fatigue or defeat; for Alonso, it’s about timing and legacy. If the 2026 car delivers, it may be the perfect moment to bow out. If it does not, he may feel compelled to give it another go, as he’s made clear he won’t leave because of a lack in competitiveness.

The Retirement Question: A Conditional Farewell

Alonso has been surprisingly open about the possibility that 2026 could be his final year in F1. That’s not to say he’s locked in his decision — he’s emphasized that a lot depends on how the season and the car unfold. 

He said:

“It depends on the feeling I have next year, how I feel physically and mentally … If the car goes well, there’s a good chance it will be my last year.” 

He also admitted that if the car underperforms, it will be harder for him to walk away without trying again.

In interviews, Alonso has stressed that his drive isn’t about longevity for its own sake; he wants to compete, to win, and to walk away with dignity and relevance. He’s clear: retirement won’t be forced by decline, but chosen in strength. 

His Only “Question Mark” & Team Progress

Alonso has expressed confidence in Aston Martin’s trajectory. He believes that success is more or less guaranteed in the new era, but admits his only real doubt is when it will arrive. 

He said that everything seems aligned — technical hires, the engine partnership with Honda, and the support structure built around the team — but racing is never just about plans on paper. Execution, luck, and competition will decide how fast the jump can occur. 

That nuance is key: Alonso isn’t asking if Aston will succeed, he’s pondering when, and whether he’ll still be behind the wheel when they do.

What It Means for 2026 & Beyond

• Motivation Reset: For Alonso, 2026 offers a reset. With new regulations, teams will have fresh opportunities. If Aston’s car is competitive early, he may feel he’s earned a final run.

• Legacy Considerations: He’s increasingly framing this phase as about legacy. He doesn’t want to overextend, lose form, or exit on a low. He wants to leave while still respected.

• Aston Martin’s Burden: Alonso’s future now becomes partly tied to the team’s success. If Aston fails to deliver, convincing him to stay becomes much harder.

• Team Stability & Continuity: He’s noted that he sees success in 2027 or 2028 perhaps being more likely, once the “glue” is in place. So 2026 might be a leap year — either he grows with it or he steps aside. 

Final Thoughts

Fernando Alonso’s recent comments bring into sharp focus the final phase of an extraordinary F1 career. He is no longer chasing just lap times — he’s chasing an ending befitting his legacy: competitive, dignified, and on his terms.

The 2026 car isn’t just another season for him — it’s the pivot of his fate. If it performs, we may see Alonso sign off in style. If it falters, we may see a fighter return for one more push.

Either way, it’s a dramatic chapter in a chapter already full of them — and among all the technical battles, this may one of the most compelling stories heading into F1’s next era.