In 2016, Lewis Hamilton expressed concern about Fernando Alonso possibly retiring from Formula 1, emphasizing that a driver as gifted as Alonso deserved to continue racing. Hamilton argued that Alonso’s departure would be a loss for the sport, especially given the Spaniard’s exceptional talent and history in F1.
Alonso had returned to McLaren in 2015, coinciding with Honda‘s introduction as the team‘s engine supplier. However, Honda’s early struggles to produce a reliable and competitive engine led to a difficult period for Alonso and the team. By mid-2016, speculation emerged regarding Alonso’s potential retirement due to the car’s lack of performance.
During that time, Hamilton, who was Alonso’s teammate and a reigning world champion, voiced his hope that Alonso would not retire. In August 2016, Hamilton highlighted how it would be detrimental for Formula 1 if Alonso stepped away while stuck in an uncompetitive car.
“It wouldn’t be a good representation of what this sport is all about, it wouldn’t give a good image, F1 wouldn’t be as worthwhile if Alonso didn’t continue,” said Hamilton.
“You can’t allow someone with that much talent to stop driving because he’s so far behind and because he’ll never have another chance to win. It wouldn’t be fair,” he added.
Alonso ultimately chose to remain in Formula 1 through 2018, although results fluctuated, improving slightly before declining. After the 2018 season, Alonso stepped away from Formula 1 to pursue other racing opportunities before returning in 2021 with Alpine. Now competing with Aston Martin at 44, Alonso continues to demonstrate his enduring skill and passion for racing.
Lewis Hamilton’s Thoughts on Alonso Possibly Ending His F1 Career
In the same 2016 discussion, Hamilton was asked whether Alonso’s retirement was a likely outcome. The Mercedes driver acknowledged that it was possible, noting Alonso’s extensive achievements in the sport and suggesting he might no longer need Formula 1 to showcase his abilities.
Hamilton reflected on Alonso’s career accomplishments and his status as a legend in the sport.
“He [Alonso] has won enough races, he has enough experience, he doesn’t need Formula 1 anymore to be someone,” said Hamilton.
“He’s a two-time world champion. He’s already a legend,” he added.
During the period away from Formula 1 following his 2018 decision to step back, Alonso competed in various other series. He notably won the 2018-19 World Endurance Championship and secured victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Alonso also took part in the Indy 500, demonstrating his versatility across motorsport disciplines.
Alonso’s Enduring Presence in Top-Level Motorsport
Despite earlier doubts about his career longevity, Fernando Alonso returned to Formula 1 and continues to race competitively. His resilience and experience, combined with the skill Hamilton highlighted, keep him relevant in F1’s fast-paced environment. Alonso’s journey illustrates both the challenges drivers face with equipment and the lasting impact of exceptional talent in motorsport’s premier series.
Lewis Hamilton’s 2016 call for Alonso to delay retirement reflected an awareness of the sport’s need for its most talented competitors. Alonso’s subsequent return and ongoing performances confirm the wisdom in encouraging such careers to continue, ensuring that fans and the sport benefit from their brilliance on the track.