Fernando Alonso fully on attack
The long-running Formula 1 driver is talking about a career until he is 50
February 12, 2024, 6:31 p.m
His 21st season in Formula 1 is coming up – Fernando Alonso could be the father of many a competitor. But the Spaniard, who works for Aston Martin, simply can’t get enough of motorsport. Now he’s even talking about being able to drive until he’s 50.
The two-time world champion Fernando Alonso believes that a Formula 1 career until the age of 50 is fundamentally possible. “Before, I might have said 41 or 42. Now I think I might be able to ride for a few more years. If you’re motivated and committed to the cause, you can ride until 48, 49 or maybe even 50,” said the 42nd -year-old Spaniard at the presentation of the new car from his Aston Martin racing team. But Formula 1 demands “total dedication”.
The 2005 and 2006 world champion has not yet made a decision about his own future. Alonso only has one contract left for this season. “I can keep going for a few more years, but I don’t know if I’ll be able to race until 50 with such a demanding calendar. Not because of my skills, but because there are other things in life that interest me,” said the pilot from Oviedo , who is contesting his 21st Formula 1 season. “First I have to decide whether I want to continue dedicating myself to the sport. If I continue, I’ll see what my options are.”
“There are only three world champions in the starting field”
Alonso described Aston Martin as his first interlocutor if he were to continue his career beyond this season. The 32-time Grand Prix winner also knows how attractive he is for other teams. “There are only three world champions on the grid and only one of them is available in 2025,” Alonso remarked flirtatiously. “I’m in a good position.” In addition to Alonso, there are Red Bull dominator Max Verstappen, who won three titles in a row, and Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton, who became drivers’ world champion seven times. The Brit will move to Ferrari in 2025.
Did Alonso already have contact with Mercedes in connection with the then free cockpit? “Not at all,” he replied. He teased his outgoing driver Lewis Hamilton. The Brit had claimed that his upcoming move to Ferrari next year was a childhood dream. “Twelve months ago it wasn’t his childhood dream, was it? Or two months ago, because back then it was a different dream,” said Alonso.
Aston Martin would like to continue working with Alonso. “We have a relationship based on trust and openness. We would be happy to work with Fernando until 2025 and in the years beyond,” said team boss Mike Krack. You don’t have to have any doubts about your fitness despite your old Formula 1 age. “I feel fitter than ever,” emphasized Alonso, who also spoke about the benefits of working with a nutritionist on the sidelines of the AMR24 presentation.