Fernando Alonso has detailed the impact of Aston Martin’s Formula 1 struggles in 2026, as the team continues to suffer problems on and off-track.
Aston Martin’s struggles remain a dominant story in the paddock, as Alonso, Adrian Newey’s backing, and Lawrence Stroll’s support continue to face significant challenges.
Its new Honda power unit is causing significant issues, both underpowered and unreliable, its extreme vibrations prevents its drivers from finishing a race.
The opening races have effectively acted as test sessions for Aston Martin, gathering data on the issues as work continues at its Silverstone base and Sakura for a solution.
Ahead of the Chinese Grand Prix, another challenging race, Alonso gave an honest assessment of the difficulties facing him and the team.
“Less tough than what you think. I mean, not ideal,” he said to media, including Motorsport Week.
“We all want to win. We are 22 drivers this year. One will win, 21 will be in a difficult and tough mental state, because for me to finish third or fifth or 17th, it really doesn’t matter much.”
Experience counts for Fernando Alonso
Alonso confirmed that, after driving through the V10, V8, and previous V6 turbo eras, the challenge of not being at the front of the grid stays the same amid Aston Martin’s struggles.
“I was lucky enough and privileged enough to live different eras in Formula 1 and to have fun driving, and eventually super lucky to have competitive cars for half of my career and achieving more than 100 podiums in the category.
“So now to finish in any other position that is not first, for me it’s the same pain and the same struggle.
“Obviously, we are now in this journey with the team, which is not the ideal start, but it’s the first year of this collaboration between Aston Martin and Honda and we have to go through this moment in time, and I’m ready to help as much as I can.”
Alonso is known for his outspoken nature and his years of experience in the sport. His comments indicate the latter is proving critical as he navigates yet another difficult chapter in his complex career.
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