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Alonso's Second Act: Still a Force in F1?

  //science-technology.news-articles.net/content/2 .. /18/alonso-s-second-act-still-a-force-in-f1.html
  Published in Science and Technology on Wednesday, February 18th 2026 at 10:54 GMT by BBC
      Locales: BAHRAIN, BELGIUM, MONACO, NETHERLANDS, SAUDI ARABIA, AUSTRIA, UNITED STATES, FRANCE, HUNGARY, ITALY

Wednesday, February 18th, 2026 - The Formula 1 paddock is buzzing with anticipation as Fernando Alonso embarks on what many are calling a remarkable second act. While his return in 2021 was already a significant story, his continued presence and evolving role within the sport in 2026 warrants a closer look. Is this simply a case of a racing legend clinging to a fading dream, or is Alonso still a force capable of shaking up the established order? The answer, increasingly, appears to be the latter.

When Alonso stepped away from F1 after the 2018 season, many assumed his time at the pinnacle of motorsport was over. Two years is a long time in a sport defined by relentless innovation and the emergence of young talent. Yet, his subsequent successes in endurance racing - claiming victories at the Le Mans 24 Hours not once, but twice, and tackling the grueling Dakar Rally - didn't extinguish the fire. His return with Alpine in 2021 was framed as a 'win-win-win': good for the team, good for Alonso, and good for F1 itself. Now, five years later, that initial assessment holds even greater weight.

Alonso, now 44, boasts a career record few can rival: two World Championships (2005, 2006), 32 Grand Prix victories, and a staggering 382 race starts. These numbers alone cement his status as an F1 icon. But statistics don't tell the whole story. Alonso's raw speed is undeniable, but it's his racecraft, his tactical intelligence, and his ability to extract every ounce of performance from a car that truly set him apart. He isn't just a driver; he's a complete racer.

Alpine's Continued Gamble - and Why It's Paying Off

Alpine, formerly Renault, has been steadily building towards becoming a consistent championship contender. While they've shown flashes of potential, breaking into the top tier dominated by the likes of Mercedes, Ferrari, and Red Bull (now increasingly challenged by the new Aston Martin outfit) has proven elusive. In 2021 and 2022, Alonso provided a crucial stepping stone, imparting his knowledge and experience to the team's engineering and strategic departments. Now, in 2026, he's a veteran leader, mentoring younger drivers and offering invaluable feedback on car development.

Recent upgrades to the Alpine chassis, heavily influenced by Alonso's input, have demonstrably improved the car's handling and performance. While Esteban Ocon remains a competitive teammate, Alonso's ability to consistently push the boundaries and identify areas for improvement is undeniable. The dynamic between the two drivers is positive, fostering a collaborative environment that benefits the entire team.

Alonso's Personal Quest: Defying Father Time

The narrative surrounding Alonso's return isn't solely about championships. While winning a third title remains a clear ambition, it's equally about proving that age is no barrier to success. He openly acknowledges that he isn't the same driver he was in his 20s, but his adaptability and dedication to physical and mental conditioning have allowed him to remain competitive against drivers nearly half his age.

His training regime is legendary, pushing his body to its absolute limits. He's embraced new technologies and training methods, demonstrating a willingness to learn and evolve. Furthermore, he's become a vocal advocate for driver fitness and mental well-being within the sport, inspiring a new generation of racers.

The Broader Impact on Formula 1

Beyond the on-track battles, Alonso's presence elevates the entire sport. He is a compelling personality, known for his outspokenness and unwavering competitive spirit. He generates headlines, attracts viewers, and injects a dose of drama into a sport that sometimes feels overly sanitized.

His commitment to racing beyond Formula 1 - his ventures in endurance and rally racing - have broadened his appeal and demonstrated his versatility as a driver. This cross-discipline success has garnered him fans from different motorsport communities, bringing new eyes to Formula 1. Alonso embodies the spirit of dedication and passion that defines motorsport. He's a reminder that racing isn't just a job; it's a way of life.

The question isn't if Alonso's return is valuable, but how valuable. In a sport increasingly dominated by youth and technological advancement, Alonso represents a bridge to the past, a testament to skill and experience, and a symbol of enduring passion. While a third World Championship may be a tall order, Fernando Alonso continues to prove that legends never truly fade.