Fernando Alonso delivers revelation over F1 future decision

Fernando Alonso has detailed that he would like to wait until September to make a call on his F1 future.

However, the Spaniard acknowledged that Aston Martin may look to consolidate its driver line-up at an earlier date.

At 44 years of age, Alonso is the oldest driver on the grid but is still viewed as one of the strongest competitors ahead of a pivotal year for Aston Martin.

The Silverstone-based squad is hoping to take a step forward up the pecking order this year as new technical regulations come into play.

As Alonso evaluates his future, the two-time champion noted his decision will likely depend on how the car evolves during the year.

“I don’t know - I think this year you have to wait a bit longer because the progression and development of the cars is going to be incredible,” Alonso told AS when asked when he will make a decision over his future.

“Instead of improving one or two tenths with an upgrade package, you might improve eight tenths or a full second. 

“So I think we’ll see huge performance swings from the teams throughout the season. 

“Making a decision in April or May could be right or wrong by September, depending on how the evolutions go. The longer you can wait, the better. 

“That would be my intention - to wait until September to decide. But we’ll see.”

Alonso wary of driver market danger

Alonso is entering his 23rd F1 season, extending the all-time record as he goes in pursuit of the elusive third title.

While the Spaniard asserted the team's performance is an important factor in his future decision, he noted he will also consider his own personal circumstances.

“I don’t think it will just depend on performance,” he said.

“I need to see how I feel, how motivated I am, how much the travel, the events, the marketing and everything outside the track weighs on me.

“I think the team is going to improve a lot from the start of the year; we’re going to grow as it progresses. 

“That will be motivating in terms of the possibility of continuing, seeing the car improve and results getting better.”

However, Alonso understands he may not have the opportunity to wait as long as he likes with various names entering the driver market.

“But to make a 100% certain decision, you have to wait as long as possible… if the team can wait.

“Because one thing is what you want, but if the team wants to know in the spring whether you’re staying so they don’t miss out on other drivers on the market, there will be pressure from the team to make a decision as early as possible.”