De la Rosa uncertain if Alonso will continue racing after 2026.
"It’s a very personal matter"
Pedro de la Rosa acknowledges that even Fernando Alonso is uncertain about the duration of his Formula 1 career following the new 2026 regulations. The two Spaniards share a long-standing friendship and professional relationship, with de la Rosa currently working as a brand ambassador for Aston Martin alongside Alonso. In a conversation on Cadena SER’s El Larguero, de la Rosa noted that the decision ultimately rests on Alonso’s personal feelings.
"I’ve learned from Fernando to value his talent and to collaborate with him race by race," he stated. "I’m not sure—nor do I think he is either. It’s a deeply personal issue, and when he senses a drop in performance or energy, he’ll be the first to acknowledge it. But for now, that isn’t the case."
De la Rosa emphasized that there are no indications of decline. "I can assure you that I haven't observed any decrease in his performance at any race this year. We should relish the opportunity to watch him."
He recognized, however, that time isn’t in Alonso’s favor. "It's also true that we need to provide him with a better car, and that's the aim, because age is a factor, and we can't afford to delay."
This sense of urgency was evident in Abu Dhabi after the season finale, when de la Rosa spontaneously posed a question to the 44-year-old Alonso as he exited the car.
"If you can finish sixth this year, what could you accomplish with a more competitive car?" de la Rosa inquired. Alonso’s response was swift: "Finish first."
Looking back on the moment, de la Rosa emphasized it was unscripted. "Honestly, it was an impromptu interview. I didn’t even know what I was going to ask him.
"Fernando had just exited the car, was sweating, had applied his ice pack, and that question just came to me naturally, and his answer came from an even deeper place. It was impactful."
"That’s how Fernando left it," de la Rosa summarized. "His aspirations are evident."
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