Yesterday at 10:10
Aston Martin team principal Andy Cowell has responded to Fernando
Alonso's suggestion that he could retire if the squad's car is
competitive next year. Alonso stands as the most experienced driver
in F1 history and is preparing to enter his 23rd season in 2026.
Throughout the last decade, Alonso has rarely had a car capable of
competing at the front of the grid, with 2023 remaining the
exception. Alonso bagged eight podiums throughout the campaign two
years ago, before Aston Martin slipped back in the pecking order in
the following seasons. With a new regulation set coming into play
next year, Alonso suggested a step up the competitive ladder from
Aston Martin could result in his exit from the grid. "If things go
well, I think it's a very good moment to stop because I've been
chasing a competitive car and competitive racing for many, many
years, and if I have that I think it's a very good way to close my
career," he said. "Let's say that if we are competitive, there is
more chance that I stop. If we are not competitive, it will be very
hard to give up without trying again." Aston Martin is preparing
for a new era next year as it will commence a working relationship
with Honda, who will return as an engine manufacturer. Cowell
asserted he understands Alonso's desire to bow out of F1 while on
top. "I think that's linked to, we all want to finish on a high,"
Cowell told media including RacingNews365 . "He'd like to finish
his driving career winning races, doing well in races. "So I think
that's what that's linked to. He's a huge part of the team. "[It
is] really useful to have him on board, and Lance this year and
into next year, providing guidance on what's important for the 206
car, work in the DIL sim and car configuration work and so on. "I
think it comes back to that. Last race for Fernando, top step of
the podium—that's what we all dream of."
