Alonso Reflects on Post-Return Performance and the Balance of Ego

Fernando Alonso has revealed that upon his 2021 return to Formula 1, the data showed he was initially slower, forcing him to confront his own performance and rebuild his confidence. The two-time World Champion now looks ahead to a pivotal 2026 season with Aston Martin, armed with a car designed by Adrian Newey and powered by Honda.

Why it matters:

Alonso's candid admission about his post-hiatus performance dip highlights the immense mental and physical challenge of returning to F1's pinnacle. His journey back to form, culminating in a strong 2023 season, underscores the critical balance between self-belief and ego required to compete at the highest level. His 2026 prospects with a Newey-designed car add a significant layer of intrigue to his career's final chapters.

The details:

• Alonso returned to F1 with Alpine in 2021 after a two-year break, during which he raced in the Indianapolis 500 and the Dakar Rally.
• He admits the initial data was clear: "The stopwatch said I was a few tenths slower." He felt at his limit with no immediate answer for regaining that lost time.
• The Spaniard attributes the setback to a cognitive "reset" after his break, emphasizing that raw ego is detrimental but "bulletproof" self-confidence is essential.
• His performance recovered markedly at Aston Martin in 2023, securing eight podiums and fourth in the Drivers' standings, though the team's form dipped in 2024 as development focused on 2026.

The big picture:

Alonso's career is a masterclass in longevity and adaptation. From his titles with Renault to challenging periods at Ferrari and McLaren, his latest act involves spearheading Aston Martin's ambitious future project. The 2026 season represents a potential career capstone, pairing his hard-earned experience with what is anticipated to be a highly competitive package from a legendary designer and a currently dominant engine supplier.

What's next:

All eyes are on 2026, where Alonso is already seen as a potential favorite. Driving a Honda-powered Aston Martin conceived by Adrian Newey, he has a final, clear shot at a third World Championship.

• He enters the final year of his current contract in 2025 alongside Lance Stroll.
• The project's success hinges on the team delivering a car that can harness the potential of its new technical leadership and power unit.
• As noted by 2009 champion Jenson Button, while his on-track competitiveness remains, the conversation also naturally turns to his legacy and the future generation of drivers.