Fernando Alonso stays with Aston Martin as 2027 driver pairing is confirmed

Fernando Alonso will remain in Formula 1 with Aston Martin in 2027, with the team confirming on September 29 that he and Lance Stroll have extended their contracts. The announcement keeps the partnership intact for a fifth consecutive season and ends the uncertainty over whether Alonso would continue racing next year.

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In its announcement, Aston Martin emphasised the experience of both drivers and the value of maintaining established relationships as it develops its car. Stroll is set to begin his 11th Formula 1 season in 2027. The Canadian has made more than 200 starts and recorded three podium finishes, according to the team.

Alonso, 45, told BBC Sport that confidence in his own speed was the main reason he chose to carry on. He said he still believed he could compete with other drivers and would find it difficult to watch from home while feeling capable of doing better. He also considered the regulations and Aston Martin's competitiveness before deciding.

The Spaniard's commitment follows a difficult season for the team. In the BBC interview, Alonso identified Adrian Newey as a major influence on his decision and said he wanted to give Honda another opportunity to address its problems. He expressed faith in changes at the engine manufacturer while cautioning that a complete recovery next year was not guaranteed.

Aston Martin said Alonso has contested 85 Grands Prix for the team since joining in 2023, collecting eight podiums, including two runner-up finishes. Executive chairman Lawrence Stroll said the immediate priority remained improving performance. Lance Stroll also expressed confidence in the team's people and resources, saying the work being done at Silverstone reinforced his desire to stay.

Alonso's decision does not mean his reservations about the current cars have disappeared. He told the BBC that the sport's willingness to discuss improvements with drivers and teams gave him hope that racing would be more enjoyable next season. He also left open the possibility of continuing beyond 2027, without presenting that as a settled decision.