FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has declared Fernando Alonso’s potential departure from Formula 1 due to performance issues as ‘unacceptable’. Ben Sulayem’s comments were made on Friday in Madrid, coinciding with the Spanish Grand Prix weekend.
The FIA President stated he would actively work to convince the two-time world champion to remain in the sport. Alonso, currently 45 years old, has expressed dissatisfaction with Aston Martin’s performance and the 2026 F1 regulations.
Alonso has accumulated only three points after 13 races during the current 2026 season. His contract with Aston Martin extends through 2026, but he is considering alternative racing series or a non-driving role for 2027.
Ben Sulayem confirmed he held discussions with Aston Martin owner Lawrence Stroll to address the team’s performance challenges. He also intends to speak directly with Alonso to encourage him to reconsider his future.
The FIA President emphasised the importance of Alonso to Formula 1. He stated that a champion of Alonso’s calibre should conclude his career successfully, not be forced out by car performance.
‘There is no way we can allow Fernando, a great champion, to leave because of the circumstances,’ Ben Sulayem said. ‘That’s not the way to leave the stage. He has to be successful, and then he leaves whenever he wants. (But) not because he was forced to leave because of the performance.’
Alonso’s concerns extend beyond Aston Martin’s current car. He has indicated that the new 2026 F1 regulations are a significant factor in his decision-making process for 2027.
The 2026 regulations, which introduced a 50:50 hybrid power unit split and active aerodynamics, have faced criticism from several drivers. Issues such as energy management and dangerous closing speeds have been highlighted.
Ben Sulayem previously acknowledged that mistakes were made during the formulation of these controversial 2026 regulations. Discussions with drivers and teams have been ongoing to address these concerns.
Aston Martin experienced a difficult start to the 2026 season. Despite the arrival of Adrian Newey, the team initially struggled with the new Honda power unit and chassis.
However, significant upgrades introduced at the Hungarian Grand Prix and an improved Honda power unit have led to some performance gains. Alonso secured two points at the Dutch Grand Prix following these developments.
The Spanish Grand Prix is taking place in Madrid this weekend, marking the event’s return to the capital after more than four decades. Alonso previously expressed disappointment about competing on home soil with an uncompetitive car.
Alonso also noted that other drivers had approached Lawrence Stroll regarding an Aston Martin seat before committing to their current teams for the 2027 season.
