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Jenson Button believes that Fernando Alonso’s decision to re-sign with Aston Martin is vital for the team’s future. The 2009 F1 World Champion and Aston Martin Ambassador notes that seeing continuous progress will keep the 45-year-old Spaniard motivated to race.
Alonso’s motivation and team progress
At the end of September, it was confirmed that Alonso would continue with Aston Martin, maintaining an unchanged line-up with Lance Stroll for 2027. This latest contract will see the two-time World Champion compete in his 24th Formula 1 season next year as the Silverstone-based squad attempts to recover from a difficult 2026 campaign.
The team currently occupies 10th place in the Constructors’ Championship, having needed a B-spec update in Hungary to improve their pace. Despite this positive change, engine supplier Honda has struggled with both performance and reliability. Nevertheless, Aston Martin maintains ambitious plans for the future, including the addition of Team Principal Adrian Newey.
Speaking to Latest F1 News (formula1.com), Button addressed any doubts regarding Alonso’s longevity. “I mean, there always has to be a little bit of doubt, because he’s 45 years old now,” Button said. “I’ve been out of the sport for 10 years, and I retired because I was tired!”
“I mean it always has to be a little bit of that, but it amazes me – his dedication and how much he loves competing at the top level, and he’s still got it. So why not then keep going until he doesn’t want it anymore?”
“He is going to want to see progress, that is the main thing. He probably knows he’s not going to win races any time soon, but as long as he can see progress and he is moving closer to that win, that’s what’s going to keep him going.”
A remarkable career and unique driving style
Alonso’s upcoming campaign will mark his fifth year with Aston Martin, continuing a career that began in 2001 with Minardi. Throughout his time in the sport, he has driven for teams such as Renault, McLaren, and Ferrari while maintaining an elite level of performance ahead of his 46th birthday midway through next season.
“I don’t know how he does it,” Button said. “I really don’t. He lives racing, he lives F1. When he’s not in an F1 car he’s in a go-kart on his track or he’s driving ex-DTM cars.”
“He’s always driving something, and that’s his passion, and he likes driving on dirt as well. He keeps himself very busy with racing, and fair play to him.”
When asked if Alonso is still operating at his absolute best, Button explained that eras are difficult to compare, though the effort remains undeniable. He highlighted that Alonso’s driving style is distinct compared to his peers, noting the driver’s constant steering wheel adjustments.
Team atmosphere and future outlook
Alonso’s time with Aston Martin has featured strong highlights, notably in 2023 when he secured eight podium finishes on his way to fourth in the Drivers’ Championship. Even amid current struggles, he has managed to score seven points.
Button emphasized the importance of team atmosphere in helping drivers maximize their abilities. “A few years ago, when they were getting podiums, it felt amazing,” Button stated. “But now I think someone with his experience, this team has had world champions racing for them for quite a few years now, and I think it’s an interesting brand for racing drivers.”
“It seems to work really well, and [Alonso] seems at home.”
The confirmation of Alonso’s stay provides a valuable boost for the entire organization as they look ahead. “I think that’s really important for this team and continuity with both drivers is really important,” Button concluded, pointing out that both Alonso and Stroll provide crucial feedback needed to develop a competitive car.
