"F1 can't keep going like this" - Fernando Alonso raises concerns at his home race during the Spanish GP.
Aston Martin's Fernando Alonso has expressed that Formula 1 "cannot persist in this manner" after feeling let down by how the current breed of cars is struggling on the demanding Madring circuit, now the venue for the Spanish Grand Prix.
While Alonso appreciated the challenging 5.4km Madring track, which boasts numerous high-speed and demanding corners with minimal margin for error, he believes that the formidable circuit is being underutilized due to the existing cars' dependence on battery management.
"It's somewhat disheartening, in a way, to arrive at such a wonderful circuit with this generation of cars, facing obstacles like La Monumental corner and Turn 12," remarked the two-time world champion.
"It shouldn't be possible for Michael [Alonso's PR] to outpace Max Verstappen simply because he has more battery power, especially since Turn 12 is such an extraordinary corner where Max should be able to showcase his advantage over Michael, and right now we can't do that.
"In Formula 1, or motorsport overall, it should be that in Turn 12, if Michael is bolder than me, he goes quicker. If I have superior skills, I will outperform him; that's how qualifying should operate. At present, it's just about how much [battery charge] I possess, determining whether I go faster or slower."
Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin Racing
F1 has been taking steps to address these issues, gradually moving towards a 60-40 balance between combustion and electric power, with the most notable shift anticipated for 2027.
However, Alonso remains optimistic that F1 can expedite its return to V8 engines ahead of the 2031 timeline set for the next regulations cycle. With his Aston Martin team facing performance challenges from its Honda engines, he has engaged in discussions with FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem regarding potential regulatory adjustments to help Honda regain competitiveness.
Honda has already been granted extra concessions under the ADUO catch-up system designed for underperforming power unit manufacturers, yet this system is generally regarded as flawed and in need of further modifications.
"I did have a conversation with him, but I speak with Stefano [Domenicali, F1 boss] regularly every week, because Formula 1 cannot go on like this," Alonso expressed. "We can't wait until 2031 for the sport to be at its best, so I believe it's also my duty to assist with my experience in whatever ways we can."
Alonso's remarks and discussions with motorsport leaders arise as the 45-year-old contemplates his future, although the expectation remains that he will continue with Aston Martin in 2027.
Additional reporting by Cihangir Perperik
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