Fernando Alonso has claimed that he is in a ‘good position’ heading into what promises to be a hectic year in the driver market. The experienced Spaniard has touted himself as the ‘only available world champion’ for 2025 as Mercedes continue their search for Lewis Hamilton’s replacement.
Mercedes looked to be one of just two teams – the other being McLaren – with both of their seats filled for the 2025 season but their long-term preparations were torn apart when star driver Hamilton made the unexpected move to join Ferrari, activating an exit clause in his contract.
While Hamilton’s deal is already arranged, the seven-time world champion will see out the 2024 season with Mercedes. But beyond then the Silver Arrows will need a replacement, and with no contingency plan in place for this outcome, there are many options on the table.
One of these options is Alonso, who proved that he still has what it takes to fight at the front last season, despite his advancing age. Long-term junior driver Esteban Ocon and Williams star Alex Albon are also among the candidates, while teenage sensation Kimi Antonelli could force his name into the conversation with a strong Formula Two rookie campaign.
Asked how Hamilton’s move will affect him ahead of the launch of the AMR24, Alonso replied: “I am aware of my situation, which is unique.
“There are only three world champions on the grid, and fast world champions, because in the past maybe there were some champions who were maybe not so committed to be fast. And I am probably the only one available for 2025. So I am in a good position.
“But at the same time, when I make the decision whether I want to keep racing in the future, the first and only talk I will have in the beginning will be with Aston Martin. That will be my only priority.
“But if we cannot reach an agreement and I want to commit to race in F1, I know I have a privileged position, I am probably attractive to other teams, the performance they saw last year, the commitment.”
Alonso will wait to see how competitive the AMR24 is on track before making any concrete statements regarding his future. At 42 years of age, a switch to Mercedes could offer an unexpected late-career title opportunity.