Aston Martin has confirmed that Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll will remain the Formula 1 drivers for the 2027 season.
The news arrived accompanied by a video in which Fernando Alonso himself indicated that he would retire from Formula 1… but at a later date.
It seemed like a goodbye… but not
The potential renewal (or not) of Fernando Alonso as a driver for the Aston Martin Aramco F1 Team had been up in the air for several months. The disappointing results the British outfit has produced this season and the 45 years of the Asturian driver led many to consider the possibility that the Oviedo native might retire from the Grand Circus, perhaps to compete in other categories.
Well, that is something that will happen, but not yet: Fernando Alonso has renewed with Aston Martin and will remain a Formula 1 driver, at least until 2027. Aston Martin has just announced it, confirming that Alonso and Lance Stroll will continue to be the F1 drivers for the team next year.
At 12:00, the Aston Martin Aramco F1 Team posted a message on X alongside a video of a chair, urging followers to be tuned in for what would come at 13:00. At that moment, speculation soared. In a way, the chair suggested the scenario Sebastian Vettel chose in 2022 to announce his retirement from F1, when he was driving for Aston Martin.
At 13:00, and with quintessential British punctuality, Aston Martin released another message on X: a video accompanied by the phrase “A message from Fernando.” In that video, the same black chair appears, but this time occupied by Fernando Alonso, who during the first seconds plays with the words and adds a touch of drama to the matter…
“Formula 1 has been incredible for me. I’ve had an extraordinary career. I’ve traveled the world. I’ve competed for more than 23 years, in over 400 Grands Prix, and I’ve achieved far more than I had ever dreamed. It took me a little time to make my decision, but now I’m very clear: I will retire from Formula 1,” Alonso says in the opening seconds of the video.
In that moment, the Asturias-born driver paused before continuing to speak to add: “But not yet,” making it clear that he will remain an F1 driver. “I still feel fast and motivated, and I have a huge passion for Formula 1 and for this sport. So yes, I’m very happy to keep competing in the pinnacle category and in what is my life,” explained the Oviedo native.
At the same time, Aston Martin published a statement confirming that they will maintain their current driver lineup through 2027, i.e., for a fifth consecutive season.
“Fernando will continue his record-breaking Formula 1 career and this extension reinforces the Spaniard’s long-term commitment to the team and the Aston Martin Aramco brand. Since signing with the team in 2023, the two-time world champion has competed in 85 Grands Prix, earned eight podiums, and secured two runner-up finishes,” said Aston Martin.
“I’m very happy to sign a new contract with the Aston Martin Aramco. I took my time to make this decision, but racing is my life, my passion, and I know I still have the speed and the determination to compete at the highest level. I am committed long-term to this team and to helping us succeed,” commented Alonso.
“I truly believe in what we are building: we have strong leadership, people, partners and incredible facilities. I look forward to creating more memories on the racetrack in front of the passionate fans. Their energy creates an atmosphere that inspires me and is what makes our sport special,” added the Asturian.
Images | Aston Martin
