Fernando Alonso reveals the factor that will force him to retire from F1

Fernando Alonso is currently the oldest driver on the F1 grid, but retains his talent as he proved with eight podiums in 2023.

Fernando Alonso reveals the factor that will force him to retire from F1

Fernando Alonso (Via IMAGO)

Fernando Alonso has been racing in Formula 1 since the 2001 season, now 23 years ago. While the Spaniard remains enthusiastic to compete in the pinnacle of motorsport, he has conceded that there is the potential for retirement.

The 42-year-old has expressed similar sentiments due to the triple-headers in the 2023 calendar. Now, with 24 races coming up in the 2024 calendar, the Aston Martin star has admitted that if the hectic calendar proves too much for him, he will be considering retirement from the sport.

YouTube video
Next year, I’ll see what 24 races feel like. If I have the feeling that I’m no longer able to perform, that I expect from myself, I will be the first to raise my hand.
Alonso said, via AMuS.

Alonso is currently the oldest driver on the F1 grid, ahead even of longtime rival Lewis Hamilton who is now 38. The Asturian also holds the record for the longest F1 career, the only driver to have a career spanning 23 years.

FS Video

Fernando Alonso describes ambitious post-retirement plans 

Fernando Alonso is one of the most talented drivers on the F1 grid today, proving his worth in the 2023 season. However, Alonso is 42 which is an impressive age to merely drive in F1, let alone manage eight podiums like Alonso did in 2023.

Fernando Alonso and George Russell
Fernando Alonso and George Russell (Via IMAGO)

Soon after his contract ends, the time for retirement may come for the former two-time champion. When it does, Alonso has some plans still involving motor racing. The 32-time F1 race winner wants to extend his success to the world-famous Dakar Rally, hoping to take victory in the prestigious challenge.

When I retire from Formula 1, I would love to return to the Dakar. Winning the Dakar Rally is a clear goal in my career. It would complete me, make me happy, and I think it would leave an almost unprecedented legacy.
Fernando Alonso said, via soymotor.com

Alonso already has experienced major success outside of Formula 1. In 2018 and 2019 when the Spanish racing legend was off the F1 grid, he took part in the World Endurance Championship. Incredibly, Alonso took the world championship titles on both occasions, also winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

In case you missed it: