Why Alonso's influence on the 2026 driver market is as strong as ever

Fernando Alonso may be 44, in the twilight of his Formula 1 career and currently struggling to escape the first part of Qualifying at race weekends – but the double World Champion's influence on the sport's driver market remains as strong as ever.

That says a lot about the perception of the Spaniard's talent across the paddock and in the wider ecosystem – and his importance to a team like Aston Martin, who are just over halfway through their 10-year plan to morph themselves into World Championship contenders.

Alonso's contract is up for renewal at the end of the season – and he has made it clear he plans to wait until the summer at the earliest before making his mind up.