Fernando Alonso spotted in Dakar test after issuing 'almost impossible' entry claim

Fernando Alonso has denied suggestions that he will line up at the 2027 Dakar Rally, despite being filmed testing a Prodrive car in Morocco.

The Aston Martin driver hinted at a surprise project after signing a new contract extension with the Silverstone-based outfit, fuelling speculation that the 45-year-old could turn his attention to a different series away from Formula 1. 

The Dakar Rally quickly emerged as the most persistent rumour, with Alonso having previously tackled the world's toughest rally back in 2020. A tie-up with Prodrive was floated as the likely route back in.

Speaking in Singapore, Alonso moved to shut the speculation down.

"I've read the rumours too," Alonso said. "But no, physically speaking, I don't think it's possible. It's almost impossible to combine two demanding programs like a Formula 1 championship and the Dakar Rally."

"When I take on my next challenge, I'll announce it myself. Then it won't be a rumour anymore, I'll be the one breaking the news. And that won't happen until I feel my preparation is good enough and it's a risk worth taking."

Alonso spotted conducting Dakar test

Despite the denial, evidence has since emerged suggesting there may be more to the story. Footage posted to Instagram by Gerard Farré showed Alonso in Morocco for a Prodrive test, with the Spaniard pictured behind the wheel of an all-black race car on Friday.

Prodrive had been working with Dacia on its Dakar program, but the squad is now understood to be preparing to enter under Aston Martin branding.

There remains some uncertainty over where the Dakar Rally will even take place. The event is traditionally held between January 1 and 15 in Saudi Arabia, but contingency plans are reportedly being drawn up amid unrest in the Middle East, with Morocco touted as a possible alternative venue given the country already hosts a prestigious rally of its own.

Should that switch happen, the logistical hurdle facing Alonso would shrink considerably, and with it, the likelihood that the two-time world champion ends up on the Dakar entry list after all.