Fernando Alonso has said that Aston Martin’s current downturn in form is “different” to his doomed second stint with McLaren in Formula 1.
Alonso has appeared calm and relaxed throughout the 2025 season, despite Aston Martin’s regression to the foot of the midfield.
The Silverstone-based squad has done little to capitalise on its impressive 2023 season, in which Alonso scored eight podiums on his way to fourth place in the Drivers’ Championship.
The Spaniard has only managed just two podium places so far this season, coming in the last two rounds in his home race in Spain and last weekend’s Canadian Grand Prix.
One of Alonso’s lowest periods in F1 was his return to McLaren in 2015, in which he scored less points in four seasons than he did in the entirety of 2023, and conveyed a series of public showings of discontent with the machinery he had at his disposal.
Alonso explained to media including Motorsport Week that his successes in other forms of racing, including winning the Le Mans 24 Hours in 2019, has contributed to his now calmer demeanour and approach.
“Yes, it is different. I am in a different stage in my career as well,” he said. “Maybe I needed to prove myself as well, back in 2018, that I was able to win and to enjoy the victory again and feel that success again.
“It seems that I needed that, to also be more relaxed and enjoy what I do. After winning Le Mans and Daytona and trying different categories, and being competitive and fast in all of those, I think I am calmer now and I can wait a few more months or years in this case.”
Faith in Aston Martin gives boost ahead 2026
Despite time not being on his side, the 43-year-old seems unfazed by the team’s shaky first half of the season, and added that his first season with the team has also contributed to his positive outlook.
“2023 was also a good boost for me as well, coming to Aston Martin and having some success as well, and being recognised.
“Now, in 2026 with the new rules and Adrian on board, it feels very different, this standby moment that we are going through this year.
“We are not competitive, we will not score many points, even if we don’t score any, but we are still very focused and very motivated for next year to be a contender. This definitely feels very different.”
Alonso’s words would be music to the ears of those in the ranks of Aston Martin, who may feel on edge with speculation linking him with a reunion with Flavio Briatore back at his old team Alpine.
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