The Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team has confirmed that both Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll will continue as its drivers for the 2027 season, putting an end to speculation surrounding Alonso's future.
Why it matters: The extension of contracts for Alonso and Stroll is a strategic move for Aston Martin as it aims to stabilize its performance following a challenging 2026 season.
Alonso, a two-time world champion, will enter his 24th Formula 1 season and turns 46 in July 2027.
Stroll will be racing for Aston Martin for his ninth season, having joined from Williams in 2019.
Both drivers form the most experienced driver pairing in Formula One, bringing valuable racing knowledge to the team.
Driving the news: The announcement was made on September 29, 2026, confirming the unchanged driver lineup for the upcoming season.
Alonso had been contemplating his future due to Aston Martin's poor performance under the new regulations, which has seen the team score only three points in 15 races so far.
The team has struggled with its Honda engine partnership, leading to questions about Alonso's commitment moving forward.
Stroll expressed confidence in the team's direction, citing the hard work taking place at their Silverstone base.
State of play: Aston Martin's performance in 2026 has been disappointing, sitting at the bottom of the standings with just three points.
Alonso has scored all of Aston Martin's points this season, with Stroll yet to finish a race distance.
The team has faced challenges with its AMR26 car, which was overweight and late to testing.
Recent upgrades have improved performance, but the team remains focused on long-term goals.
The big picture: The stability provided by retaining Alonso and Stroll allows Aston Martin to build on its existing relationships and knowledge as it seeks to improve its competitive standing.
Lawrence Stroll, executive chairman of Aston Martin, emphasized the importance of experience, stating, "Having two drivers with their level of experience, commitment and knowledge provides tremendous value to the whole organization."
Alonso's contract extension reflects his belief in the team's potential, even as he has voiced criticism of the current engine regulations.
The decision to stay also narrows the driver market for 2027, leaving only four seats open across the grid.
What they're saying: Both drivers expressed their commitment to the team and excitement for the future.
"I'm very happy to sign a new contract with Aston Martin," Alonso said. "I took my time to make this decision, but racing is my life, my passion, and I know I still have the speed and determination to compete at the highest level."
Stroll echoed similar sentiments, stating, "I believe we have the resources and the people to become a winning team."
Lawrence Stroll added, "We are here to win, and whilst our short-term focus remains on improving performance, I believe we have the world-class talent we need to achieve our long-term objectives."
By the numbers: Key statistics highlight the drivers' achievements and Aston Martin's struggles this season.
Alonso has competed in 85 Grands Prix for Aston Martin since joining in 2023, scoring eight podiums and two second-place finishes.
Stroll has completed over 200 Formula One starts and has three podium finishes in his career.
Aston Martin has finished 10th in the standings, with only three points scored this year, all by Alonso.
What's next: As the team prepares for the 2027 season, the focus will be on improving the car's performance and competitiveness.
Upcoming discussions about potential adjustments to the engine regulations could impact the team's strategy moving forward.
With Alonso's and Stroll's contracts confirmed, Aston Martin can now concentrate on developing its car and enhancing its standing in the championship.
The team aims to leverage the experience of its driver duo to navigate the challenges ahead and capitalize on any future opportunities for success.