Villeneuve throws doubt over future Alonso F1 title chances

Jacques Villeneuve has thrown doubt over whether Fernando Alonso can win a third F1 drivers' title following Aston Martin's signing of Adrian Newey. 

Ahead of this weekend's Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Newey was announced as Aston Martin's new managing technical partner and a shareholder. 

The 65-year-old will start working for the Silverstone-based outfit on March 1 2025, in time to design and prepare the team's car for the new 2026 power unit regulations. 

Newey's appointment of the most decorated designer in F1 history has improved the chances of Alonso claiming a third drivers' championship, although Villeneuve is unsure whether it will be possible in 2026 despite the boost he will bring.

Asked if Alonso will remain competitive despite his age, speaking to Sky Sports F1, 1997 F1 champion Villeneuve said: "Yes, because that will give him the energy, the boost to carry on.

"So there's no reason for him to be slower than he is now or than he was last year. But it takes a while. 

"Twenty 26, is also a little bit too early, maybe to have an extremely competitive car. It's a long-time project, and I'm not sure it will benefit Alonso, which probably is frustrating for Fernando. 

"And by that point, he might be in WEC."

Aston Martin 'challenge'

Newey being signed by Aston Martin is the latest signal of intent from team owner Lawrence Stroll to make the outfit capable of winning championships. 

It is a bold move by Newey given that Aston Martin is a midfield team and a comfortable distance behind the leading outfits. 

Villeneuve believes it will be a huge challenge for the F1 technical expert in what he agrees is a seismic move in the sport. 

"It is, because it's the number one designer of the history of racing," added Villeneuve. 

"[Newey's] going from winning teams, McLaren, Red Bull, to a team that's right now, a midfielder, and is there to try and build it, to make it into a winning team. 

And that's a great challenge for him. They built an amazing factory, and money is not the limit for that team."