Alonso Hints He Will Race One More Season Before Barcelona Farewell

Fernando Alonso has indicated the current Formula One campaign will likely be the final season, and suggested the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix could mark the last appearance at a home Formula One race, as contract uncertainty and team struggles shape the veteran driver’s outlook.

The event at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya no longer carries the Spanish Grand Prix title, with that status moving to Madrid from 2026. From 2027, this Barcelona race will alternate annually with the Belgian Grand Prix, creating a rolling schedule beyond Alonso’s expected career window.

Under the new rotation, Formula One plans further Catalan races in 2028, 2030 and 2032. There is no assurance Alonso will still compete at those events, with the 44-year-old currently in the final year of an Aston Martin contract and warning that retirement is close.

Alonso sits 18th in the 2026 drivers' championship, having scored a single point so far. That came when Alonso finished 10th at the Monaco Grand Prix, giving Aston Martin a first points finish of the season after regulation changes exposed weaknesses in the team’s current package.

This is probably my last race in Barcelona, Perez said on Thursday, as quoted by Marca. I will not be competitive. I won't be in qualifying for long and in the race yes, but at a slower pace. It's a special race and this last time it will here, too.

Alonso carries strong history at the circuit, having twice won his home race when it hosted the Spanish Grand Prix. Those victories arrived during the 2006 title-winning season and again in 2013, achievements that underline why this weekend holds significant emotional value.

Asked about long-term plans, Alonso explained there is still no confirmed decision on extending a Formula One career. Alonso said: "I have nothing in mind. After the summer, I will decide if I will continue or not. But Barcelona will not be there next year, so there are many different options to be my last race [overall]. But in every race, I think it could be my last."

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Alonso also reflected on competing in the midfield rather than fighting for victories at this stage. Alonso said: "The hard thing is not winning races and not being competitive, but it doesn't change anything about my career or my life. I achieved much more than I ever dreamed of." This weekend’s race therefore combines personal nostalgia with a realistic assessment of current performance.