Aston Martin team boss Mike Krack wants to continue working with Fernando Alonso in 2025, but with rival teams possibly eyeing the Spaniard’s services, a “quick car” is a prequisite for Team Silverstone to retain the F1 veteran.
Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari at the end of the 2024 season coupled with multiple driver contract expirations has blown wide open F1’s driver market.
Alonso’s contract with Aston Martin expires at the end of this season and while the 42-year-old previously expressed his desire to remain among motorsport’s elite given his strong physical health, he admitted recently that the enduring sacrifices associated with his life in the fast lane were a factor to consider.
“First of all, I need to speak with myself, I need to make a decision. If I personally want to commit for the future,” he said.
“Obviously, I need to sacrifice everything else in life to be 100% ready for F1. That will be the decision.”
Hamilton’s vacant seat at Mercedes is obviously of interest to Alonso, although the Brackley might only be willing to accommodate the two-time world champion for a single year as it grooms its talented F2 protégé Andrea Kimi Antonelli.
Krack is all too aware of Alonso’s potential appeal and of the key factor that will influence his decision to remain with the team or to leave.
©AstonMartin
"It is clear that a driver of that calibre is attractive for everybody, that is clear but we will try to keep him,” said the Aston F1 boss.
"It is no secret that he first of all wants to decide for himself what he wants to do.
"We want to continue working with Fernando, and I think the most important thing is that we give him a quick car so he believes in this project, believes in this team - and everything else we will have to discuss over the weeks to come.”
Beyond Alonso’s driving prowess, Krack highlighted his leadership qualities and motivational impact on the entire Aston Martin team, making him an invaluable asset they're determined to keep.
"We have seen that last year already when he joined,” Krack said.
“It is not only what he brings in terms of driving talent and race craft, but he brings this extra drive, push and motivation to everybody.
"He leads by example, from the first day, with his mood from the first moment in the morning to late at night.
"It is exemplary, and this is something that is infecting the whole team - and it is something that you want to preserve."
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