Alonso says 5-minute chat sealed F1 future beyond 46th birthday

Fernando Alonso has extended his Aston Martin contract in a brief five-minute meeting with team owner Lawrence Stroll, ensuring the two-time world champion remains in Formula 1 beyond his 46th birthday. The Spaniard, who turned 45 in July, signed a new agreement alongside Canadian Lance Stroll for the 2027 season, joining an unchanged team lineup.

With over 440 races under his belt since 2001, Alonso is the sport's oldest active driver and previously won two championships with Renault in 2005 and 2006. The negotiation was straightforward, as Alonso remarked, "We both wanted to continue at that point and it was a five-minute talk." Despite the Silverstone-based Aston Martin struggling with an uncompetitive car and Honda power unit, finishing third in points across 15 races, Alonso remains committed to his racing career.

He attributes his ability to adapt to different cars, rules, and series, including a two-year Formula One break between 2019 and 2021, to his longevity. Alonso's decision was also influenced by family considerations, as his partner Melissa Jimenez expressed concern for his well-being when the team is not competitive.