Barcelona GP rotation makes 2026 outing potentially Alonso's last

Fernando Alonso said the Barcelona‑Catalunya Grand Prix could “probably” be his last visit to the circuit as he weighs his F1 future and a possible retirement. The 44‑year‑old, whose Aston Martin contract expires at the end of the season, will decide whether to continue racing after the summer. He called the weekend his 23rd Spanish Grand Prix, said he is at peace with his career and achievements, and noted he became a father earlier this year. Alonso highlighted that the Catalunya race will rotate with Spa‑Francorchamps next season, so Barcelona is not on the 2027 calendar and is scheduled to return in 2028, with further rotation dates in 2030 and 2032. He said that possibility made the Barcelona weekend emotionally significant and that he would try to enjoy the event if it proves to be his final visit. Alonso blamed Aston Martin’s lack of competitiveness this season rather than retirement itself and acknowledged he is not at peak pace. The team have struggled this season and scored their first point at Monaco. He said he does not expect to be fully competitive in qualifying at Barcelona, may limit his qualifying running to manage risk and expectations, and added that he considers every race this season could potentially be his last.