P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Fernando Alonso delivers confident clapback over Aston Martin U-turn
Fernando Alonso has responded defiantly to media criticism of his Aston Martin F1 team, despite their dip in performance in the 2024 season.
The team, led by Lawrence Stroll, experienced an initial success in 2023 with Alonso achieving three podiums in his first three races but fell to ninth in the following season’s standings.
Criticism has been aimed at Aston Martin over their inconsistency, with hopes now pinned on the 2026 regulations and the expertise of F1 design guru Adrian Newey.
Alonso hasn’t shied away from defending his team, pointing out the strength of their facilities amid doubts from the media about the team’s direction.
As the oldest driver on the current F1 grid at 43 years old, Alonso continues to show competitive spirit against his younger teammate, Lance Stroll, raising questions about his future in the sport.
While both Alonso and Stroll’s contracts expire at the end of the 2026 season, Alonso has hinted at the potential of retiring and transitioning to a role off the track in the future.
