Fernando Alonso reveals biggest reason behind staying in F1 with Aston Martin for 2027 season

Fernando Alonso has decided to continue racing in Formula 1 with Aston Martin for at least one more year. The 45-year-old Spaniard says the biggest reason behind his decision is simple: he still feels fast. Alonso had been considering his future throughout the 2026 season.Despite his frustration with the new hybrid-era cars, Alonso believes he still has more to offer behind the wheel. He also sees potential in Aston Martin, with Adrian Newey playing a major role in his decision. The veteran driver says he wants another chance to compete before eventually stepping away from F1.Fernando Alonso still believes he can compete at the highest levelFernando Alonso explained that his love for racing remains the biggest factor behind his decision. He has been competing in F1 since 2001 and does not feel ready to walk away while he believes he can still match the best drivers.“First, this is my life. I have this in my blood and I keep racing and I keep enjoying and this is a way of life, in a way. Probably for me the biggest, or the clearest thing to keep racing is I still feel self-confidence that I have something extra. And when I think about stepping down or taking a different role in the team or not driving the car or whatever, in a way I feel it should not be like that because I still feel as fast as anybody. So let’s have another go”, Alonso told BBC Sport.Alonso has struggled for results this season as Aston Martin have spent much of the year near the bottom of the F1 field. His most recent podium came at the 2023 Sao Paulo Grand Prix.However, Alonso insists his personal speed has not disappeared. He pointed to moments during practice when he feels he is still faster than other drivers.“When I jump in the car, in free practice, I will see some people braking late in a corner, locking up the front tyres here or there, making mistakes there. I feel that I’m OK. Or, I’m faster than them”, Alonso said.The new 2026 regulations were another major issue for Alonso. He has repeatedly criticised the new hybrid power units and the way battery management affects driving. He has described F1 as the “battery world championship” and criticised the need to charge batteries through fast corners.Still, planned changes to the power balance have given him hope. Alonso believes the move towards a 60-40 power split by 2028 could improve the driving experience.Aston Martin’s future was also crucial. The arrival of Adrian Newey has given Alonso confidence that the team can eventually challenge at the front.“Adrian was probably the biggest contributor to this. We didn’t start it right this year but things are moving in the right direction and he’s capable of changing things very quickly”, he added.For now, Alonso has committed to another season. But he has also hinted that his F1 career could continue beyond 2027.Stay updated with the latest Asian Games 2026 news, check the Asian Games medal tally and complete Asian Games schedule.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.