Fernando Alonso says this weekend’s Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix will likely be his final Formula 1 appearance at the Circuit de Catalunya.
Advert | Become a Supporter & go ad-free
Alonso, who turns 45 this year, is contracted with Aston Martin through the end of the season. Even if he extends his career for another year, Formula 1 will not return to the Circuit de Catalunya until 2028, making this year’s race a likely farewell to the track.
“It’s going to be a special weekend,” Alonso said. “Probably my last Barcelona race in Formula 1, so I want to say thanks to everyone.”
Despite Aston Martin unexpectedly earning their first point of the season in Monaco last week, Alonso tempered expectations about the team’s competitiveness.
“I will try to enjoy the weekend,” he added. “I will not be competitive and I will not be too long in the car in qualifying. In the race, hopefully, yes, but not at the pace that we all want.
“But I want everyone to still enjoy the weekend. It has always been a celebration when they come to Barcelona. This will be my 23rd Spanish Grand Prix and all of them have been magical — this last one has to be magical as well.”
Alonso’s most recent victory at the circuit came in 2013, and he says his first home win, 20 years ago, is one of his favourite memories there.
Advert | Become a RaceFans supporter andgo ad-free
“There were huge expectations after winning the championship in 2005,” he recalled. “Being on pole position, everyone expected us to win on Sunday. I think I will remember that one as my number one memory and many, many things that happened that weekend.”
Alonso also reflected on early milestones at the circuit. “My first single-seater test was here, I think in 1994 — my first Renault test and my first Benetton test were here as well,” he said.
“There are many moments I will always remember. I once did a lap with King Juan Carlos in a Renault Mégane. In turn three I remember he was perhaps not that comfortable in the car and I didn’t realise the King was in the passenger seat at first.”
“So yeah, it’s a special place.”
This article will be updated.
Go ad-free for just £1 per month>> Find out more and sign up
Miss nothing from RaceFans
Get a daily email with all our latest stories — and nothing else. No marketing, no ads. Sign up here:
2026 Monaco Grand Prix
- Alpine succeed in first stage of Right of Review request over Gasly’s penalties
- “Stroll the usual idiot”: Aston Martin driver frustrated leaders in Monaco GP
- Stats: Antonelli smashes record for youngest-ever ‘grand slam’
- FIA to hear Alpine’s review request over Gasly’s penalties on Thursday
- Mercedes explain pit stop error which led to Russell’s costly Monaco Grand Prix penalty
Browse all 2026 Monaco Grand Prix articles