What are the possible options for Fernando Alonso in 2018?

At the end of his third season, it is clear that his association with the English team has not been a success since his departure from Ferrari at the end of 2014. In anticipation of the next F1 season, with which team will we see Fernando Alonso? Let’s analyze the different options.

The most likely scenario

In the first instance, the McLaren-Honda status quo scenario must be eliminated. The last three years have been simply catastrophic for the Spaniard, who has issued a very clear ultimatum, summarized as follows: “Honda or me.” As the first possible and more likely option according to the latest rumors from the paddock in Monza, the continuation of the Alonso-McLaren adventure but with Renault as the engine supplier. However, Renault would have to end its association with the Toro Rosso team, and the Faenza team would need to agree to evolve with Honda, and vice versa. (Find a detailed analysis of these negotiations here)

If that is the case, we could then see this new McLaren-Renault partnership and, by the same token, the confirmation of Alonso with McLaren. At this hour, this still remains the most probable option for a driver who will turn 37 in 2018.

Other tracks, with obstacles

Another option possible, in the event of the first scenario’s failure: what about a direct transfer of Alonso to the Renault team?

Difficult to say, with a persistent rumor already linking Carlos Sainz to Renault in 2018, as part of a “compensation” for the Losange due to the loss of its partner Toro Rosso. And if we add the wild card Robert Kubica; undoubtedly, the second seat alongside Nico Hülkenberg is highly coveted for 2018.

Positive point, it is important to remember that Alonso has previously been associated with the French team, from 2002 to 2006, where he won his two world championship titles (2005 and 2006), and in 2008-2009 for a less successful return, marked by the “Singapore gate” and its consequences. So, never two without three? It is clear that the Renault team is making progress this season. It could prove to be a very good bet for 2018 and beyond.

Nevertheless, the arrival of the double world champion could upset the hierarchy in the French team, while creating a financial gap concerning the biggest salary on the grid: 40 million dollars at present. By comparison, Jolyon Palmer already brought in more than 300,000 euros for testing in 2015… Is it worth the gamble at this precise moment?

Third option, a signing with the Williams team to replace veteran Felipe Massa. Although Williams performed well at Monza by finishing 7th and 8th respectively, the team has experienced a slump during several Grand Prix this season. It would be surprising if the Spaniard wanted to take this risk for the final years of his career. On the contrary, Lance Stroll’s father is ready to buy out Alonso’s contract to make him his son’s luxury teammate. Moreover, Williams needs a driver over 25 years old to meet the marketing requirement of the Martini brand, the team’s main sponsor. An agreement and an honorable exit for Felipe Massa, a friend of said driver, would still need to be found.

Fourth option, the least likely in Formula 1, would result from a hypothetical departure of Sergio Perez from Force India. The relationship between the two outsiders has been strained since the various racing incidents between the Canadian and Belgian Grand Prix. A seat available at Force India could represent an interesting option with the team currently ranked fourth in the constructors’ championship and also equipped with a Mercedes engine. But again, there’s a hitch. Through Otmar Szafnauer at Monza, the team based in Silverstone indicates being in “advanced negotiations” to retain its two drivers, despite recent quarrels. The team is actually more occupied negotiating with the Mexican’s sponsors. And the other seat is locked by the German manufacturer for its great hope, Esteban Ocon.

Last admitted scenario, with the weakest certainties. Could we see Alonso in Indycar in 2018? The trend is negative. However, his performance at the Indy 500 at the end of May was a standout, leading part of the race before retiring… obviously due to engine failure. For 2018, two teams from the field – Chip Ganassi Racing and Andretti Autosport – are reportedly in line to welcome the Asturian bull. Such a rumor has, however, been dismissed with a wave of the hand by Zak Brown himself, calling these rumors « false news. »

Thus, it is imperative that the double world champion can find a seat that matches his talent. Despite his four years, we are talking about an exceptional driver who currently ranks among the top three drivers in his field alongside Hamilton and Vettel. The coming days will be crucial for the continuation of his career in Formula 1.