The only thing Fernando Alonso was unsure about in regards to his 2025 Formula One career was if he wanted to race again, not which team.
The two-time World Champion Alonso’s new deal was arranged “very fast,” according to Aston Martin ambassador Pedro de la Rosa, who expressed this belief.
After signing a new contract with Aston Martin, Fernando Alonso clarified his doubts.
On Thursday, Alonso signed a new multi-year contract with Aston Martin, securing his future there despite rumors of openings at Mercedes and Red Bull.
Alonso, who will age 45 in 2026, has a revised contract that will last him until at least the conclusion of the 2026 season, which is also the 20th anniversary of his second title victory with Renault.
Following weeks of speculation that he might leave Formula One at the end of 2024, Alonso decided to remain with Aston Martin.
Speaking on the F1 Nation podcast, De la Rosa—who was close to Alonso at both McLaren and Ferrari in the past—said Alonso’s reservations were never about wanting to stay on the grid but rather about taking advantage of chances with other teams.
He stated, “I believe that Fernando’s consistent fulfillment of his commitments is a crucial factor.
When the season first started, he expressed uncertainty on whether he wanted to stay in Formula 1 for another year in ’25, saying, ‘I need some time to think about it and think how I improve during the year.'” I’ll notify you when I’m ready after that.
He adhered to his word. He simply replied, “I want to continue with Aston Martin,” when he realized that his energy levels were sufficient and that he wanted to dedicate himself to further Formula 1 driving.
Therefore, I believe the true question was whether he wanted to stay in Formula One, not with which team. For him, the degree of seriousness with which he approaches the sport is crucial.
“The actual matter that was discussed was Fernando’s desire to stay in Formula One.
“After Lewis Hamilton announced his intention to join Ferrari for 2025, everyone was talking about teams or movements, but that was never the reality within our team or with Fernando.””Do I want to continue in F1 and show this level of commitment?” was the only question he had to ask himself.
That was the query, and once it was addressed, I believe the transaction went through quickly.
Fernando and the crew wanted to get this information out as soon as possible because we have a really exciting project in the works.
“What makes us keep it a secret from everyone?”
Because Alonso chose to stay with Aston Martin, he will get the opportunity to work with Honda again in 2026 when the Japanese company joins the Silverstone team as an engine partner, having previously worked with Red Bull.
Between 2015 and 2017, Alonso had a bad experience with Honda at McLaren. He is well-known for calling their power unit a “GP2 engine” over the team radio during Honda’s home race at Suzuka.
