Fernando Alonso was coy on the possibility of shifting his interests within Aston Martin to its World Endruance Championship programme as speculation continues over his future in Formula 1.
The Spaniard has been pressed on the subject of whether he will remain in the sport in 2027, amid Aston’s difficult season and his personal dislike of the new regulations cycle.
Alonso has frequently insisted that there is still an enjoyment for F1, but as sporadically maintained his interest in being a “complete driver,” having previously attempted the prestigious Indy500, as well as winning the Le Mans 24 Hours twice with Toyota.
That could correlate with his current position within the Silverstone-based squad, which has its endurance programme through the Hypercar conversion of its road-legal Valkyrie.
Ahead of this weekend’s Spanish Grand Prix, Alonso was asked whether this could be an option for 2027 instead of Formula 1, and his reply was short, but potentially telling.
“Yes,” he said, to media, including Motorsport Week.
Alonso said he is not close to deciding his 2027 plans. Asked when fans can expect news on his future, he said: “Not soon.” Pressed on the reason for the delay, he said: “Because I think it’s nice, no?”
Could the 2027 regulations be the decision point for Fernando Alonso?
He said the decision depends on next year’s regulation changes and where he can add the most value to the team. “I think it’s a matter of understanding what the rules from next year will have an impact or not on the racing and on the driving side of things,” he said. “I think the current cars, as I said many times, are not the best cars to drive and to enjoy. But next year there is a step, I think, in the right direction, hopefully.”
“But, yes, at the same time, I need to think what is the best programme for next year and sit with the team,” he said. “Behind the wheel or in another role, where I will be helping the most, that will be the most important thing to decide together.”
Asked whether Aston Martin was showing impatience, given other prominent drivers have committed to rival teams, Alonso said the team had no urgency, though he acknowledged those drivers had been in contact with Aston Martin owner Lawrence Stroll over the summer. “Those drivers, they were visiting Lawrence in summer,” he said. “Yes, so no urgency.”
Alonso’s reticence about speculation about his future suggests a driver in full control of the situation, and is very much calling the shots. The news, when it arrives, will be intriguing one way or the other.
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Originally published by motorsportweek.com —
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