Two-time Formula 1 World Champion Fernando Alonso has revealed what's next for the driver beyond his F1 career. As Alonso, now 43 years old, contemplates the next few years of his racing career, he remains laser-focused on Formula 1 with an ambition to capture a third world title before considering retirement.
"I'm very, very focused on Formula 1 now for the next two or three years," he said according to Pitpass.com. "I want to win the third world title. This is my first and only priority at the moment."
Alonso's illustrious career spans various racing disciplines, and his quest for the prestigious Triple Crown of motorsport has turned into a chapter that while he wants to achieve, may never come to fruition. The Triple Crown requires victories at the Monaco Grand Prix, the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and the Indianapolis 500—a feat only one driver, Graham Hill, has achieved:
- Monaco Grand Prix: 5 wins (1963, 1964, 1965, 1968, 1969)
- Indianapolis 500: 1 win (1966)
- 24 Hours of Le Mans: 1 win (1972)
While Alonso has won the Monaco Grand Prix and Le Mans, the Indy 500 continues to elude him.
"I attempted the Indy 500 three times and didn't succeed," he admitted. However, Alonso now hints that his Indy 500 aspirations may have to stay just that - aspirations.
"It's the only one missing, but at the moment it's not in my plan."
Alonso's decision is influenced partly by age and the intense focus required for such an endeavor.
"After that, because I will be 45, 46, I think the commitment that it will require to do the Indy 500, the amount of learning that I will have to redo again, it will be a little bit too much," he admitted. "I cannot say 100 percent, but it will be too much, and as I said other goals in life as well."
Instead, the Spaniard has set his sights on the legendary Dakar Rally, a showcase of endurance not just for the cars, but their drivers, too. Known for its challenging terrain and unpredictability, winning Dakar would further cement Alonso's legacy as a versatile driver.
"I think my next biggest challenge will be the Dakar Rally," he said. Joining the ranks of F1 veterans turned Dakar contenders, Alonso aspires to follow in the footsteps of Jacky Ickx and Carlos Sainz Sr., who have found success in this demanding event.
"If I can win Dakar I think it will be hugely rewarding for me personally because I can win in Formula 1, I can win in endurance racing, winning Le Mans and Daytona, and if I can win in rally as well it will mean a lot for me as a driver," he noted.
Aston Martin is eager to give Alonso the tools he needs to compete at the front of the F1 grid. Adrian Newey will be joining the team next year, joining a brand new wind tunnel, giving them the best shot at revealing a dominant car in 2026 as the regulations change. This will be the driver's best shot at winning his third championship after a rather disappointing 2024 season for the Silverstone squad. We're hoping 2026 will be an exciting season.