Alonso and Stroll confirmed for Aston Martin's 2027 F1 line-up
Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll will remain Aston Martin's Formula 1 drivers in 2027 after extending their contracts, the team announced on September 29. The decision keeps the pairing together for a fifth consecutive season and settles Alonso's immediate racing future after he spent much of this year considering whether to continue.
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Aston Martin described both extensions as long-term commitments but did not specify their end dates in its announcement. Stroll will begin his 11th F1 season next year, having joined the organisation in 2019. The Canadian has made more than 200 grand prix starts and recorded three podium finishes, according to the team.
Alonso, a two-time world champion, joined Aston Martin in 2023. The team credited him with eight podiums across 85 grands prix since his arrival, including two second-place finishes. Executive chairman Lawrence Stroll said retaining the drivers' experience and technical knowledge would support development, while improving performance remained the organisation's immediate priority as it pursued its longer-term ambition to win.
In an interview with BBC Sport's Andrew Benson, Alonso said his belief that he could still compete with the fastest drivers was central to his decision. The 45-year-old explained that retirement did not feel appropriate while he remained confident in his speed and reactions. He also said he would continue racing in other cars after eventually leaving Formula 1.
BBC Sport reported that Adrian Newey was another major influence on Alonso's choice. After a difficult first season working together, Alonso wanted to give the partnership more time. He also backed engine supplier Honda's internal changes, while acknowledging that there was no guarantee its problems would be resolved next year. His commitment therefore comes without a promise of an immediate competitive recovery.
Alonso has also criticised the driving demands of F1's new hybrid engines, but told the BBC that the sport's willingness to discuss improvements gave him hope for 2027. He left open the possibility of racing beyond next season, without committing to a timetable. For now, Aston Martin has confirmed continuity in both seats while it works to improve its car.
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