Alonso commits to Aston Martin for 2027 as Stroll also extends

Fernando Alonso will continue racing for Aston Martin in 2027 after the team confirmed on Tuesday that both he and Lance Stroll had extended their contracts. The September 29 announcement keeps the partnership together for a fifth successive season and settles the immediate future of the two-time world champion.

Alonso, 45, told BBC Sport that confidence in his own performance was central to his decision. He said he still believed he could compete with the fastest drivers and would find it difficult to watch from home while feeling capable of doing better. His decision followed months of consideration about whether to continue racing.

The Spaniard also identified Adrian Newey as a major influence, according to the BBC interview. He wanted more time working with the designer after a difficult first season together. Alonso retained faith in Aston Martin and engine partner Honda, but acknowledged that changes at Honda offered no guarantee its engine problems would be resolved next year.

Aston Martin's announcement described continuity as important to its development work, pointing to the drivers' experience and established relationships within the organisation. Stroll said he believed the team had the people and resources needed to win. Executive chairman Lawrence Stroll said improving performance remained the immediate priority, while reiterating the team's longer-term ambition to compete for victories.

The team said Alonso had made 85 grand prix appearances for Aston Martin since joining in 2023, recording eight podium finishes, including two second places. Lance Stroll, who joined the Silverstone-based operation in 2019, will begin his 11th Formula 1 season in 2027. He has more than 200 starts and three podium finishes across his career.

Remaining on the grid does not mean Alonso has withdrawn his criticism of the current cars. He told BBC Sport that accepting the new hybrid regulations had been the hardest part of his decision, while expressing hope that further changes would improve the driving experience. He also left open the possibility of racing beyond 2027, without making a firm commitment to that timeframe.