SEPANG — Lewis Hamilton has praised former title rival Fernando Alonso's natural talent after the two-time world champion signed a fresh contract extension with Aston Martin to remain in Formula 1 until at least the end of 2027. The deal, announced in Malaysia ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix, will see Alonso continue racing at age 46, a longevity the 41-year-old seven-time champion Hamilton called mightily impressive.
"There's a lot of drivers at the front who can't compete with Fernando, on pure talent. He's just not able to show that at the moment," Hamilton told reporters in Malaysia. The Ferrari driver's comments drew praise from fans, given the pair's intense historic rivalry rarely produces public compliments.
As Hamilton noted, Alonso is enduring a challenging 2026 campaign with Aston Martin and engine partner Honda struggling for competitiveness. Car and power unit problems have left the Silverstone-based outfit largely as a back-marker, languishing 10th in the constructors' championship ahead of only newcomers Cadillac, with Alonso scoring the team's only three points so far this season.
"I'm very happy to sign a new contract with the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team," Alonso said. "I took my time to make this decision, but racing is my life, my passion, and I know I still have the speed and determination to compete at the highest level. I'm committed for the long term with this team and to helping us succeed." The Spaniard, who debuted in 2001 as a 19-year-old, will extend his career into a record 24th season having contested 440 grands prix with 32 wins and back-to-back titles in 2005 and 2006.