Schumacher predicts that 2026 will mark 'the end' of Alonso's F1 career.

      "In terms of performance, he remains exceptional."

      Another former Formula 1 champion has joined Rene Arnoux in noting that veteran Fernando Alonso may be approaching the end of his competitive days on the grid. Arnoux, who also raced for Ferrari like 43-year-old Alonso, called the Spaniard "one of the disappointments" of the 2025 season in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport. "When he's battling closely with (Lance) Stroll, it speaks volumes," the 76-year-old Frenchman stated. "I think he is nearing the end of his career."

      Shanghai marked Alonso's 406th grand prix, which means he has not added to his total of 32 wins during the entire second half of his career. So far this season, Alonso has yet to score a single point, but Ralf Schumacher told formel1.de that he believes the two-time champion is "still exceptional." "He has won very few world titles for his level of talent," Schumacher remarked. "Perhaps his personality has played a role in this, as he has never been a strong team player. But in terms of performance, he remains phenomenal."

      Schumacher acknowledges that Aston Martin driver Lance Stroll may have improved over the winter, but he also suspects that Alonso might not be driving with the same urgency or aggressiveness as before. "He can't compete for top positions, and that could be impacting his performance," the German explained. "If the car makes progress, he’ll return to form. Don’t underestimate him."

      Alonso is contracted for the 2026 season and is keeping his options open beyond that. Schumacher forecasts: "I believe that by the end of 2026, it will be the conclusion of his time in Formula 1. I do not see him being signed by another elite team."

      Meanwhile, the struggling Aston Martin car company is divesting its minority stake in the Silverstone-based team that bears its name. Team owner Lawrence Stroll will acquire this stake, increasing his ownership to 33 percent. Stroll commented: "With a long-term sponsorship agreement solidifying the current relationship between Aston Martin and the Aston Martin F1 Team, our brand will continue to compete at the highest level of motorsport for many years to come."