At the Monaco historic Grand Prix, two‑time champion Fernando Alonso declared he intends to stay in Formula 1 beyond this season, saying 2026 would be “hopefully not the last season.” The 44‑year‑old Spaniard, whose contract ends next year, added that racing has occupied 41 of his 44 years of his life.

Alonso’s comments come as Aston Martin, his current team, struggles with a new Honda power unit and a chassis that lags behind rivals. Design legend Adrian Newey joined late, leaving the team four months behind in wind‑tunnel testing, a factor that has cost performance and reliability.

Despite the setbacks, Newey remains confident that the chassis gap can close as the season progresses. Honda faces the possibility of extra development upgrades, a clause that could level the playing field under new 2026 power‑unit rules designed to help lagging manufacturers catch up.

Alonso’s statement signals a possible shift in the championship narrative, as the veteran eyes a potential 2027 swan song amid a disappointing first season. Fans and teams will watch closely to see if the Spaniard secures a stronger package before committing to a longer stay.