Fernando Alonso admits he may be running out of time to secure his coveted third world championship title.
The Spaniard admits he was so eager to see Adrian Newey sign for Aston Martin that he texted him, met him and even offered him a chunk of his hefty salary to potentially boost team owner Lawrence Stroll’s financial offer.
However, with Newey set to join the Silverstone-based team next March, Alonso admits the Briton’s impact on the 2025 Aston Martin will be limited.
“I would like to say yes, but honestly, I don’t think so.”
“I don’t think it’s really worth spending too much money on the 2025 season unless you’re fighting for the championship. So I think the 2026 project should be the first car he has an influence on.”
And according to the team’s sales and marketing director, Jefferson Slack, 2026 will likely be too soon for Aston Martin to challenge for the championship.
“Newey will certainly be a big help for 2026 to fight for victories, and I think in 2027 we will fight for world championships.”
Alonso, currently 43, will turn 46 in mid-2027.
“Step by step we will have everything we need to take that first race win and hopefully fight for championships in the future.”
“But I’m aware that it takes time and I don’t have that time in a way.”
Alonso’s current contract with Aston Martin is long-term, but he has only signed until the end of 2026.
“After 2026 I will drive in Formula 1 or other series. If I don’t drive in Formula 1 I will be in the Aston Martin team, one way or another. So I will enjoy this bright future, I hope.”
