Alonso could achieve unprecedented longevity in the category

April 28, 2024 09:55

Fernando Alonso is already a Formula 1 legend. With the recent contract renewal with Aston Martin, the Spaniard will race until at least 2026, becoming the oldest driver on the grid at 45 years old.

This feat only reinforces Alonso’s impressive longevity. He already holds the record for GP starts and is expected to reach the unprecedented mark of 400 races in 2024, at the Qatar GP. It’s 23 years since his debut, and next year, he will complete two decades since his first of his two F1 titles.

Asked about Alonso’s extensive career, McLaren’s Lando Norris acknowledged the high level of dedication required. “It’s rare to see someone committed for so long to any sport,” said the Brit.

Norris believes Alonso’s longevity is unlikely to be repeated: “We’ll probably never see that again in Formula 1. And if it does happen, it will be extremely rare.”

Other young drivers, such as Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) and Esteban Ocon (Alpine), also expressed uncertainty about the ideal career length. Ocon classified Alonso’s career as ‘a dream for any athlete’ and highlighted his dedication as an example. Leclerc, in turn, aims for new challenges outside of F1, such as the traditional Le Mans race.

Alonso remains a unique case in F1. Its longevity and high performance inspire respect, but also suggest that we are unlikely to see anything like it in the future.

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