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

SEPANG: Fernando Alonso has extended his Aston Martin contract after a brief five-minute discussion with team owner Lawrence Stroll, according to reports. The deal will enable the 45-year-old two-time world champion to continue racing beyond his 46th birthday. The Spaniard, who has started 440 races since his debut in 2001, signed the new contract for 2027 alongside Canadian Lance Stroll.

In a five-minute conversation, Alonso and Stroll expressed mutual desire to continue their partnership. Alonso admitted that the upcoming season, marked by the team's lack of competitiveness, posed no guarantees of being enjoyable. However, his passion for the sport remains undeterred. Alonso also credited his two-year Formula One sabbatical between 2019 and 2021 as a significant factor in his continued success.

During this time, he switched off from F1, explored various forms of motorsport, and learned from specialists in different series. His adaptability to various cars, rules, and series has been a key strength for him. The decision to extend his contract also included family considerations, particularly after the birth of his first child with partner Melissa Jimenez.