Oliver Bearman predicts F1 world champion will retire at the end of 2026

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Oliver Bearman thinks that Fernando Alonso will call time on his Formula 1 career at the end of 2026 if his woes at Aston Martin continue.

The Spaniard is one of three multiple world champions on the grid in 2026 alongside Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton. All three of them have been subject to retirement rumours.

Hamilton shut down rumours he could retire in Canada, saying that he will be in F1 for some time yet, while Verstappen again threatened to retire over the proposed regulation changes for 2027. Alonso’s future is also in doubt, and Bearman thinks this year could be his last.

Oliver Bearman predicts Fernando Alonso to retire in 2026

The 44-year-old is the oldest driver on the grid, and there have been countless rumours about how long he will continue in F1 in recent years.

Alonso is out of contract in 2026, and this year has been disastrous for him. He is sitting last in the drivers’ standings with a best result of 15th in Miami, as Aston Martin are struggling immensely with an unreliable car and severe vibrations.

The Spaniard retired in Montreal due to chronic back pain that he has been suffering with for a while. Aston Martin are determined to improve Alonso’s fortunes, but Bearman thinks that he will retire if these struggles continue for the rest of the season.

Bearman faced Haas teammate Esteban Ocon on Hot Ones Versus, and the Frenchman asked him who is most likely to retire at the end of the season?’ The Brit had to answer the question or eat a spicy wing.

He said: “Well, I mean, we have a few older drivers now. It depends on how the year goes, I think.” Ocon then swiftly cut in: “No, I just want a name.”

Bearman eventually brought up Alonso’s name: “I think if it continues as it is, I think Fernando will spend more time with his newborn.” The Spaniard recently became a father, with his partner giving birth to their son before the Japanese GP.

READ MORE: Aston Martin driver Fernando Alonso’s life outside F1 from net worth to Cars 2

Fernando Alonso doesn’t want to retire from F1 in 2026

Speculation has been rife about Alonso’s future for some time, and many are wondering if he will call time on his career in 2026, especially with how poorly Aston Martin are performing.

In fact, Alonso joked he would retire immediately if he finished in the top five at some point this season. That seems almost impossible to imagine at this stage.

But in any case, the Spaniard is determined to leave F1 on a high note. Alonso hopes 2026 is not his last, but he will have to make a decision soon.