Alonso keeps his options open as Aston Martin advocates for a contract extension.

      "It's not just about the car"

      Fernando Alonso is still not ready to commit to Aston Martin for 2027, despite the team's confidence that a deal will eventually be finalized. When asked at Monza if an announcement might be forthcoming, Aston Martin trackside chief Mike Krack stated that there is no rush. "Are you getting impatient?" he joked with a reporter. "It’s still September, the season begins in March, there’s plenty of time."

      He added, "I think you’re aware that we’re working on it. We’re optimistic that we’ll reach a favorable agreement for everyone."

      "Whether it’s September, October, or November, it’s not really a concern, at least for me." When questioned off-mic about the possibility of Alonso retiring, Krack smiled and said, "I hope not."

      Alonso, on the other hand, is not as amenable. When asked if Aston Martin’s recent improvement, like finishing ninth at Zandvoort, was sufficient motivation to continue, he simply replied, "No." And when queried if he would remain only if expectations rise further, he answered, "Yes."

      However, the 45-year-old emphasized that the car itself is not the sole consideration. "It’s not about the car," Alonso stated. "I’m professional enough to give 100 percent, whether it’s for P15 or the podium."

      "It’s more about the regulations. This isn’t the Formula 1 we grew up with or the one we all desire."

      Alonso expressed a desire to help steer the sport back towards what he views as "real Formula 1," but cautioned that he does not wish to experience another long wait for change – or improvement from his team. "I don’t want to wait another five years like last time," he said. "I want it resolved in two or three."

      He noted that Aston Martin’s chassis advancements have been promising, but the uncertainty surrounding Honda remains significant. "The drivability was an issue, and the extra power was hardly noticeable at Zandvoort," he commented regarding Honda’s anticipated Spec 2 engine.

      Nonetheless, Alonso still has faith that Honda can bounce back. "Absolutely. The facilities we have in Japan are among the best in the world."