Fernando Alonso calmly shut down talk of Max Verstappen replacing him at Aston Martin, calling such a scenario very unlikely.
Speaking alongside Max Verstappen at today’s press conference in Jeddah, Fernando Alonso addressed swirling rumors that the reigning World Champion could take his seat at Aston Martin in 2026.
“I don’t think that’s going to happen—I have a contract for next year,” Alonso stated. “But I understand why these rumors exist. They’re good for the team. When a world champion is mentioned in connection with other teams, especially if he might leave Red Bull, names like Mercedes, Aston Martin, and Ferrari naturally come up.”
Alonso sees the speculation as a sign of Aston Martin’s growing stature.
“It just shows how serious this project is and the direction we’re heading. Like I’ve always said, I extended my contract because I still feel fast, and I want to drive as long as that’s the case.”
But driving is only part of Alonso’s future with the team.
“My contract actually goes beyond my racing career. I’ll be staying with Aston Martin for many years, just in a different role. And if that means we win a world title without me behind the wheel, I’ll still be incredibly proud of what we’ve built.”
Asked if he’d be open to sharing a team with Verstappen—should Lance Stroll ever step aside—Alonso smiled and said:
“Sure… but it’s very unlikely. Highly unlikely.”
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Alonso Shuts Down Verstappen Replacement Rumors at Aston Martin Alonso Shuts Down Verstappen Replacement Rumors at Aston Martin
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