Fernando Alonso Opens F1 Retirement Plan and Max Verstappen Ambition

Fernando Alonso has offered a clearer indication of what could follow once he eventually ends his Formula 1 driving career, including fresh major targets beyond grand prix racing.

Alonso is facing an important decision over the 2027 season amid a difficult start to the campaign for Aston Martin. The Silverstone-based squad remains towards the rear of the field, placing the two-time world champion's future back under focus ahead of the summer break.

Alonso has revealed he plans to use the summer break to decide his next step. However, the Spaniard stressed that retiring from Formula 1 would not mean the end of his involvement in motorsport.

Read AlsoChristian Horner Sets Condition for Formula 1 Return

“I definitely have some challenges ahead, most of them are motorsport-related,” Alonso told media including RacingNews365.

“I want to win Dakar. I said many times I may want to win different things or challenge myself in endurance racing again, especially if Max [Verstappen] wants to do it one day as well.”

The comments underline that Alonso still sees motorsport as a central part of his long-term plans. His ambition to win Dakar and potentially return to endurance racing, particularly if Max Verstappen becomes involved one day, shows that an F1 retirement decision would not automatically close his competitive chapter.

Alonso joined Aston Martin in 2023 and said early in his time with the team that his association with the squad could continue after his Formula 1 driving career. That position remains unchanged, with Alonso open to taking on a different role to help the team's development direction.

“When I stop racing, I said I would like to continue with this team in a different role, try to help,” Alonso said.

“I’ve been in Formula 1 for 26 years now, and I think I can help the team. Probably I’m the second or third most experienced guy in the team. I think there are things that can be useful for the team, and I prefer to use my expertise than being at home watching TV.”

Alonso's summer-break decision now represents a key moment for Aston Martin, both for its 2027 driver planning and for the possibility of a longer-term role beyond the Formula 1 cockpit.