The upcoming Spanish Grand Prix marks what Fernando Alonso considers a probable send-off for him to compete in F1 at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. The double world champion stated that his participation in the event will probably mark his last ever in the track as it will take eight years before being included in Formula 1’s schedule once again in 2028. Considering that Alonso is yet to decide whether he will carry on with his career past this season, there is no certainty that he will return to the venue.
Speaking about the Barcelona Grand Prix, Alonso commented, “It’s going to be a special weekend. This is probably my last Barcelona race in Formula 1, so I want to say thanks to everyone. It has always been a celebration when we come to Barcelona. I think this is my 23rd Grand Prix and all of them have been magical. This last has to be magical as well.”
The reason why this race can become significant for Alonso is not just because it takes place in Spain; for him, the Spanish GP will represent another crucial moment due to his extensive association with the circuit over two decades. Alonso regarded the grand prix as an important event, thanking fans for their loyalty over the years.
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Barcelona’s Calendar Exit Makes Return Uncertain
Alonso hasn’t made any promises about racing beyond this season. While retirement is just one possibility, he acknowledged that each Grand Prix this year could very well be his last time at certain tracks. Barcelona is particularly significant since it will be dropped from the schedule next year, only to make a comeback in 2028.
The Spaniard mentioned that, “Barcelona is obviously not happening next year and if I don’t know what I will do next year, it’s nearly impossible to be sure what I will do in two years’ time. I consider that every race I go to this year that potentially it could be my last time in Australia, my last time in China, my last time in Monaco, and here in Barcelona, there is a little bit more of that chance as it is not happening next year as well.”
Having participated in 23 Spanish Grands Prix, Alonso is one of the most accomplished drivers in the event’s history. His wins in Barcelona in 2006 and 2013 are unforgettable moments for local fans and played a huge role in solidifying his reputation as Spain’s top Formula 1 star.
Aston Martin’s Weaknesses Could Be Exposed Again
While everyone’s been buzzing about Alonso’s future, it’s hard to ignore the tough season Aston Martin is having. They finally snagged their first point of the year in Monaco, thanks to some post-race penalties that shuffled the final standings. Alonso crossed the line in 10th after starting from the back, but he was quick to point out that this result didn’t really show their true speed.
He mentioned that different tracks have revealed various weaknesses in the AMR26. According to Alonso, this season has brought to light issues in several key areas, like power, energy deployment, chassis performance, and gearbox behavior. The upcoming race in Barcelona could be especially tough, as the circuit is notorious for exposing a car’s overall performance, leaving little room to hide any flaws.
