Fernando Alonso — like Max Verstappen — isn’t happy with the new Formula 1 cars for 2026. The Spaniard completed his first test miles in Bahrain and, like his colleague, saw how the new-generation machines are significantly slower through the corners. According to the two-time world champion, the challenge for the drivers has therefore been greatly reduced: “Even our chef could drive it.”
For Aston Martin the first three test days in Bahrain didn’t go as hoped. Fernando Alonso was nearly four seconds slower on Thursday than Charles Leclerc’s quickest time, while Lance Stroll in the Friday morning session was also well off George Russell’s pace. Although lap times at this stage of the Formula 1 season don’t mean much, Stroll was already worried.
Alonso is also unhappy with the 2026 cars and has joined Max Verstappen’s earlier criticism. “In Bahrain we’re 50 kilometres per hour slower through turn twelve than we used to be,” Alonso told the media present. “Only to save energy for the straights.” According to the veteran, that immediately removes the challenge for the driver. “Even our chef in the kitchen could drive it.”
‘It’s never ideal’
The Spanish star agrees with Verstappen that the new cars are therefore not fun to drive, although Alonso says it’s not the first time something has irked him in the top class. “I understand Max’s comment, because as a driver you want to make a difference in the corners. Still, there has always been something in Formula 1. When Max was dominating he could take the corner at 280 kilometres per hour, while we, with less downforce, were going through the corner at 250 kilometres per hour. It’s never ideal.”
F1 calendar for 2026
