Key takeaways

With Max Verstappen’s contract extension with Red Bull finalized, Fernando Alonso has become the central figure in the Formula 1 driver market. According to Aston Martin trackside director Mike Krack, the team does not yet know what the two-time World Champion intends to do next season, but reaffirmed that his choice will be fully respected.

At 45 years old, the Spaniard was eager for the arrival of the 2026 technical regulations, hoping to return to regular podium contention following Lawrence Stroll’s massive investments in Silverstone’s infrastructure and technical hires—including Adrian Newey—as well as securing new minority investor Woody Johnson.

However, design issues on the AMR26 and initial power unit integration hurdles with Honda left Aston Martin struggling near the back of the field through the opening rounds. The team found momentum in Hungary, where a 16-part update package allowed Alonso and Lance Stroll to finish ahead of Alpine, Haas, and Williams rivals.

Despite that step forward, Alonso did not confirm his driver market intentions over the summer shutdown. Speaking to GPblog in Zandvoort, Krack acknowledged that the waiting period continues.

“This discussion has been going on for many, many months. Fernando always said he would make a decision around the summer. And I think we will see a decision in the next few weeks. We are waiting for his decision, as I said, and then we will see,” Krack stated.

Krack downplayed paddock rumors linking alternative drivers to the team, reiterating that keeping Alonso alongside Stroll remains the squad’s sole focus.

Fernando Alonso has yet to decide on his long-term F1 future (Photo: Aston Martin)

“We have always said that the focus is to continue with Fernando. And we are fairly confident that we will reach a positive outcome. On the other hand, we have to respect Fernando’s request to make his own decision, and we have to wait for that,” he concluded.

Formula 1 returns this weekend, from August 21 to 23, for the Dutch Grand Prix — the 12th round of the 2026 season. GRANDE PRÊMIO covers all the track action live from Zandvoort with reporter Leonid Kliuev. Follow all paddock updates on our news page.

Session schedule: Dutch Grand Prix 2026

SessionLocal time (CEST)UTC
Free Practice 1Friday, August 21 – 12:3010:30
Free Practice 2Friday, August 21 – 16:0014:00
Free Practice 3Saturday, August 22 – 11:3009:30
QualifyingSaturday, August 22 – 15:0013:00
RaceSunday, August 23 – 15:0013:00

Broadcast guide: Where to watch in the United States

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

1. Has Fernando Alonso decided if he will race in Formula 1 in 2027?

No. Fernando Alonso has not made a final decision regarding his F1 future beyond 2026, stating that his choice depends on his ongoing motivation and competitive enjoyment.

2. Is Aston Martin looking for other drivers to replace Fernando Alonso?

Mike Krack clarified that Aston Martin’s primary objective is retaining Fernando Alonso, and the team is not actively pursuing other drivers while waiting for his decision.

3. Did Aston Martin introduce major upgrades to the AMR26 recently?

Yes. Aston Martin introduced a comprehensive 16-part upgrade package at the Hungarian Grand Prix, yielding a noticeable performance improvement for both Alonso and teammate Lance Stroll.