Alonso states that his decision for 2027 depends on the rules, not on Aston's decline.

      Fernando Alonso has stated that Aston Martin's poor start to the 2026 season will not determine his future in Formula 1 for next year, emphasizing that the regulations themselves are a more significant concern. Spa served as the last race for Aston Martin's original and largely unchanged 2026 car before a major chassis upgrade led by Adrian Newey is set to debut in Hungary, followed by an updated Honda power unit at Zandvoort.

      "My decision isn’t based on this year's outcomes," Alonso remarked after the Belgian Grand Prix. "We've had a rough beginning this year, and I can't make my decision for next year based on unrealistic performances. I believe this isn't the team's actual potential."

      "It’s much higher than what we've observed."

      Newey has indicated that Aston Martin needs to show clear advancements to persuade Alonso to stay on for 2027, but the nearly 45-year-old Spaniard argues that even an improved car might not clarify his choice. "My decision relates to the regulations," he stressed. "Competing in these cars on tracks like Spa or previously at Silverstone isn't what I envision for the future."

      Alonso acknowledged that Aston Martin's new phase has so far not met expectations. "We had high hopes regarding these regulations, Newey joining the team, and the Honda engine. Expectations were extremely lofty, and we haven't achieved them."

      "It hasn't been difficult, just disappointing. We anticipated the car to perform well in Barcelona or Bahrain, but now we're viewing it as a challenge. We want to rebound strongly, and I'm hopeful that Budapest will mark our first step toward enhanced performance. Our aim is to come back and, ideally, head in the right direction for the team."

      The Hungary update will represent Aston Martin's first significant alteration after 11 races with essentially the same car configuration. "We've completed 11 races with this vehicle, and this will be the first race we tackle with an updated package," Alonso noted. "It will be vital for us to understand the setup direction of that car and learn as much as possible."

      Alonso also took advantage of the Belgian weekend to introduce several new power unit components ahead of the next phase of Aston Martin's season. "We've been in the same position for 11 races, and it hasn't shifted," he added. "Hopefully, the data we've collected will prove beneficial for the team, particularly regarding aerodynamics and engines, as we've implemented numerous changes like the battery and many other new components. I hope everything tests well so we can be prepared for the upcoming weekend."

      Newey was also in attendance at Spa in his official capacity as Aston Martin team principal, although his understated presence reportedly went largely unnoticed in the paddock.