Adrian Newey has shared his thoughts on whether Aston Martin will be able to retain Fernando Alonso for 2027, with the Team Principal admitting that what Alonso brings to the squad is “important”.
After first partnering with the Silverstone-based outfit in 2023, Alonso enjoyed immediate success when that campaign got underway, scoring several podiums – which included two P2 finishes in Monaco and Zandvoort – before ending the season in P4 of the Drivers’ Championship.
However, the team slipped backwards in the years that followed and would go on to face a particularly challenging start to 2026 amid the introduction of new technical regulations.
While there were signs of promise following the introduction of a significant upgrade package at the Hungarian Grand Prix, there is still a way to go – leading to speculation over whether Alonso will continue to race for Aston Martin beyond the current season.
During the weekend in Budapest, Newey was quizzed on how much of a priority it is for the team to keep Alonso onboard, and whether he felt confident that the two-time World Champion would stay.
“Obviously, Fernando is an amazing driver,” Newey responded. “He brings huge amounts to the team, both in his feedback and his ability. So, for us, of course it’s important.
“I’m pretty confident that Fernando is enjoying his time with us and that we will continue with our relationship.”
It comes after Alonso also faced questions about his future earlier in the weekend, with the Spaniard voicing his confidence that Aston Martin will be able to resolve the car issues that they have been experiencing.
“It’s not that I need answers,” he explained. “I think I have a pretty clear picture of the team, that we will fix all the problems. They take time, but I have no doubts, I have zero doubts that Adrian will provide the best car on the grid sooner or later.
“As I said before, I would like to see the first step with this package, understanding after the first couple of races, and I think there’s going to be more to come next year, that’s for sure, and the years to come.
“On the power unit, I think I have no doubts as well. It’s a matter of time that Honda fixes the issues. We started on the back foot, yes, we’re dealing with that process now, and that pain on the weekends. We’re working together to fix the issues.
“It’s just how soon the car will be competitive – that’s the question mark. Maybe the next two races will give us a little bit of a feeling for that.
“For me, I’m relaxed. As I’ve said many times, I’m thinking I need to know what I do next year, and the years to come. I feel fresh, I feel motivated, I feel fast.”
Alonso also added later on: “I do have a contract, so I’m not moving!”
