Adrian Newey confident Aston Martin can retain Alonso for 2027

Newey highlights Alonso’s importance to Aston Martin

Adrian Newey believes Aston Martin has a strong chance of retaining Fernando Alonso beyond the current season, stressing the value the two-time World Champion brings to the team as it works through a difficult period.

Aston Martin has since slipped backwards, however, with the team facing a particularly challenging start to 2026 following the introduction of new technical regulations. A significant upgrade package introduced at the Hungarian Grand Prix offered signs of progress, but the car remains short of the level required to remove doubts over Alonso’s future.

“For us, of course it’s important”

Speaking during the weekend in Budapest, Newey was asked how important it was for Aston Martin to keep Alonso and whether he expected the driver to remain with the team.

“Obviously, Fernando is an amazing driver,” Newey said. “He brings huge amounts to the team, both in his feedback and his ability. So, for us, of course it’s important.”

He added: “I’m pretty confident that Fernando is enjoying his time with us and that we will continue with our relationship.”

Alonso offered a similarly assured assessment of Aston Martin’s long-term prospects. The Spaniard said he had a clear picture of the team and no doubts that Newey would eventually provide a competitive car, even if resolving the current issues would take time.

He also backed Honda to address its problems, describing the process as one the team was working through together. The immediate question, Alonso suggested, was how soon the car could become competitive, with the next two races expected to provide a clearer indication.

“For me, I’m relaxed,” Alonso said. “I feel fresh, I feel motivated, I feel fast.”

Later, he delivered the clearest statement on his position: “I do have a contract, so I’m not moving!”