Domenicali wishes for Alonso to remain in F1 'for 50 years'.

Domenicali wishes for Alonso to remain in F1 'for 50 years'.

      "He requires a vehicle that highlights his skills and speed."

      Stefano Domenicali has joined the conversation regarding the speculation surrounding Fernando Alonso’s future. The CEO of Formula 1 made his remarks amid increasing rumors connecting the 44-year-old Spaniard to a surprising transfer to Alpine in 2027, possibly reuniting with Flavio Briatore. Alonso himself acknowledged during the Spanish GP weekend that the race in Barcelona 2026 might have been his final appearance at that venue.

      "I wish Fernando could be here for 50 years, although he might not agree," Domenicali humorously told AS newspaper. The two have a strong rapport, having collaborated at Ferrari during Alonso’s tenure with the team from Maranello.

      Alonso faced a tough home weekend, qualifying last for Aston Martin-Honda and retiring from Sunday’s race due to battery issues. When asked about seeing Alonso at the back of the grid, Domenicali expressed his sympathy.

      "I empathize with Alonso because I hold him in high regard, and I recognize he’s exceptional," he stated. "However, I also understand his resilience. If he’s provided with a competitive car, I hope he’ll have the chance to showcase his talent. His mindset is one of unwavering commitment at every level. He needs the right project. I hope it’s right here, not just for a year, but for a long time."

      When questioned about what Formula 1 would lose when Alonso eventually retires, Domenicali chose not to delve into that topic. "Now is not the time to discuss that, as I want to see him here for a long time," he replied.

      Domenicali conveyed a similar sentiment in comments to DAZN. "He’s a champion and he requires a car that highlights his talent and speed," he expressed. "If Fernando were in a different car, he would be at the front. He’s incredibly strong and a champion who never backs down."

      Following his Sunday retirement due to battery issues, Alonso suggested that the remainder of the season could impact his future decisions regarding his career or which team he should join.

      "We need to stay united," Alonso remarked when addressing Aston-Honda’s challenges. "We expect more from the second half of the year with upgrades to become more competitive, but we need to see results. At some point, it's essential to witness that some upgrades enhance the car’s speed—this hasn't always been the case in recent years. We need to validate some aspects with this season's developments, and then hopefully, things will improve."

      Alonso also revisited his poignant remarks about the possibility that Sunday’s race might have been his last Formula 1 outing in Barcelona. "The highlight of the weekend was the amazing fans all throughout, and it was a truly wonderful and emotional experience for me, possibly my last race in Barcelona," he shared. "I cherished every moment outside of the car; regrettably, we did not deliver what they deserved. Hopefully, we can do better in the latter half of the year."

Domenicali wishes for Alonso to remain in F1 'for 50 years'.

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Domenicali wishes for Alonso to remain in F1 'for 50 years'.

Formula 1 | Stefano Domenicali has weighed in on the increasing speculation surrounding Fernando Alonso's future. The remarks from the CEO of Formula 1 arise amidst escalating (…)