Aston Martin hopes Hungarian GP upgrade can convince Alonso to stay beyond 2026

Aston Martin is placing significant hope in its upcoming upgrade package as it looks to secure Fernando Alonso’s future beyond the 2026 season.

The two-time world champion’s current contract runs until the end of next year, and team principal Adrian Newey has made it clear that he would like to see Alonso continue with the project. The British team believes the major update planned for the Hungarian Grand Prix could be a key factor in convincing the Spaniard to stay.

Aston Martin’s 2026 campaign has so far been a major disappointment. The team sits near the bottom of the constructors’ standings with just one point, earned by Alonso through a 10th-place finish. Lance Stroll has yet to score, with his best result being 15th place.

The AMR26 has struggled for pace throughout the season, leaving both drivers fighting at the back of the field rather than competing in the midfield, let alone challenging near the front.

Instead of introducing a series of smaller updates, Aston Martin decided to focus all of its resources on one major development package. While the approach could bring a bigger performance gain, it has left both drivers facing a difficult first half of the season.

“Both drivers have shown frustration, and at times that has spilled into the media, but it's also understandable. They're competitive animals. They want to fight at the front. I've had a lot of conversations with both of them about where we are, where we're going,” Adrian Newey said in an interview published on Aston Martin’s official website.

Alonso’s future remains a major talking point in the paddock, with his contract set to expire at the end of 2026. Reports have suggested that Alpine, where his long-time associate Flavio Briatore is involved, could consider a move to bring the Spaniard back for the 2027 season.

However, Newey hopes Aston Martin’s progress will be enough to keep Alonso committed to the team.

"It's very important. Fernando is really looking forward to the upgrade and, if it performs we hope he'll be in the cockpit for another season. Given his experience, his feel for the car, his ability to guide development, he's a tremendous asset. But he wants to see clear, tangible progress. If we can show that we're moving decisively in the right direction, he's absolutely committed to being behind the wheel," Newey added.