Aston Martin boss explains Alonso’s “steamy look” as driver maintains 2026 pressure

Aston Martin team chief Andy Cowell has revealed that two-time Formula 1 champion Fernando Alonso gives him a “steamy look” when he discusses this year’s car with him.

Despite being the oldest driver on the grid at 43 years old, Alonso remains committed to his future with the team and the sport. While speaking to Motorsport.com and other media ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix, Cowell discussed how he manages a driver who is closer to retirement than others.

“Every time I chat to Fernando about this year’s car, he’ll give me that steamy look of you’re not compromising next year are you? He checks the look in my eyes,” Cowell explained.

“I say ‘no, no, no, it helps for next year.’ I’ve mentioned ’27 and ’28, but we’re determined to do our absolute best for ’26. Lots of conversations this week in the factory about next year’s calendar that’s now come out and in the public domain.

“When you look at the three track tests, getting a completely new car, power unit, transmission, fuel, lubricant ready for track testing at the end of January. Then two more track tests and then the races through the season as well as developing a car ready for ’27.”

The Silverstone outfit is set to transition from being a Mercedes customer team to a works team in 2026, coinciding with a new power unit partnership with Honda.

“It’s a huge challenge that all 11 teams have got for next year. Our challenge of going from customer team to works team adds to that,” Cowell added.

“There’s a big transmission and hydraulics and rear suspension programme going on as well as working with Honda to optimise the power unit to go with the chassis, and Adrian’s [Newey] thoughts on the architecture for a 2026 race car. It’s a super exciting time. It’s a nice problem being busy, isn’t it?”

In an interview with Sky Sports F1, Cowell also commented on whispers that Alonso had been seen in the Alpine garage on multiple occasions during the Canadian Grand Prix weekend. In response to this, the Aston Martin team principal reiterated that Alonso is under contract through next year.

“I’m happy for Fernando to wander into any garage. He knows lots of people up and down the pit lane,” he commented.

“And I’m also happy with the fact that he’s contracted to us next year, and hopefully will stay with us long term as an ambassador.

“It’s great working with Fernando. It’s always good to have a competitive person that pushes, just like Nico [Rosberg] used to at Mercedes, and pushes the team on and galvanises the team.”