Aston Martin F1 has extended Fernando Alonso’s contract for another two seasons. The former double world champion’s new contract will last until 2026, by which time Alonso will be 45. Alonso’s quest for a third driver’s title remains undimmed by time itself, but time is a friend to no one. However, it appears Alonso has rolled back the years because his on-track performances are as undimmed as they were in his youthful peak.

Even the best F1 drivers of past years knew when the time was right to retire, but Alonso is still driven, perhaps by inner demons, to seize whatever opportunity he can to secure that seemingly out-of-reach third driver’s title. However, in reality, while Alonso will deliver, Aston Martin may not be able to match his force of nature.

Perhaps it is the proverbial carrot at the end of the stick that motivates Alonso, but he is no El Burro, for this donkey has pushed his Aston Martin beyond its mechanical limitations. Only a high-caliber driver such as Alonso is able to extract more than the maximum the car can deliver.

And yes, Formula One is about renewal; the younger generation always wins. Otherwise, Martin Brundle would still be racing. But Alonso is the one exception who can justify his staying power because he always delivers, and to continue to do so at his age is outstanding.

During a media interview, Fernando Alonso reaffirmed his commitment to Aston Martin:

“Retirement never went to my mind. I felt I love driving too much to stop at the moment. I felt the most wanted in Aston Martin. The other conversations were just light and maybe more time was needed, whereas in Aston there was a clear desire to work together and it was the same I had.”