Former F1 driver and analyst Ralf Schumacher has recently expressed his admiration for Fernando Alonso’s performance during the 2025 season, favoring him over Lewis Hamilton. Both former champions faced unique challenges and adapted to new team environments, but their contrasting seasons garnered different reactions within the F1 paddock.
Hamilton, in his debut season with Ferrari, struggled with an inconsistent car that failed to deliver podium finishes throughout the campaign. This marked the first time in his career that he did not secure a podium position, as Ferrari shifted its focus towards the 2026 season early on. On the other hand, Alonso showcased consistent performances towards the end of the season, securing valuable points for Aston Martin during weekends where the team executed flawlessly.
Despite driving a less competitive car, Alonso managed to achieve a P5 at the Hungarian Grand Prix and a P6 at Abu Dhabi, accumulating 56 points compared to Hamilton’s 156. Aston Martin is gearing up for the 2026 season with significant changes, including a new team principal in Adrian Newey and a switch to Honda engines.
Ralf Schumacher raised the question of whether Fernando Alonso could potentially challenge for the F1 title once again, emphasizing Alonso’s relaxed demeanor and vast experience. In contrast, Schumacher highlighted Hamilton’s lack of involvement in car setup as a potential weakness, particularly when dealing with unstable vehicles.
Ferrari’s challenging season saw them finish fourth in the constructors’ standings, with Hamilton’s teammate Charles Leclerc securing all seven podium finishes. Despite this, former F1 team boss Giancarlo Minardi refuted claims of Hamilton’s decline, pointing to Alonso as an example that age does not diminish driving ability.
Looking ahead to the 2026 season, Aston Martin has already begun preparations for the new regulations, firing up their AMR26 car at Silverstone before the winter shutdown. Alonso will continue to partner with Lance Stroll as the team transitions to Honda power units. The addition of Adrian Newey as team principal for 2026 is seen as a significant move by Ralf Schumacher, who believes Newey’s expertise will be crucial in understanding the technical aspects of the sport.
Alonso, who has hinted that 2026 could potentially be his final year in F1, is optimistic about the structured approach taken by Aston Martin, with factory support, clear direction, and experienced personnel in place. The team is set to launch the AMR26 on February 9, with pre-season testing scheduled to commence in Barcelona.
In conclusion, Fernando Alonso’s resurgence in the 2025 season has garnered praise from Ralf Schumacher, highlighting the Spaniard’s determination and skill behind the wheel. As the F1 world eagerly anticipates the 2026 season, Alonso’s partnership with Aston Martin and the team’s strategic developments under Adrian Newey’s guidance will be closely watched.
