Fernando Alonso has dismissed rumors about a possible participation in the 2027 Dakar Rally. The Aston Martin driver explained that he could not currently reconcile such an undertaking with his Formula 1 commitments, noting that the desert rally requires extensive preparation.
Spain Expat Press Editorial Team
by Marlon Gallego Bosbach
Fernando Alonso has addressed recent speculation regarding a return to the Dakar Rally. At the press conference ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix, the two-time Formula 1 world champion made it clear that he does not currently consider participating in the Dakar Rally to be compatible with Formula 1.
“I don’t think the demands of Formula 1 are compatible with the Dakar,” Alonso explained in essence. He noted that intensive preparation is required for a successful outing at the demanding rally; simply having the necessary experience is not enough.
Dakar requires extensive preparation
Alonso knows the challenges of the Dakar from personal experience. The Spaniard previously competed in the rally in 2020, having undergone intensive preparation that included numerous tests and rally outings. Together with his co-driver Marc Coma, he ultimately finished in 13th place.
Alonso views this very preparation as the crucial factor. Competing in the Dakar Rally would require additional testing and race appearances that would be difficult to reconcile with the extensive Formula 1 calendar.
However, the current speculation was not entirely unfounded. In recent days, several media outlets had reported on a possible return by Alonso to the Dakar Rally in 2027, with some even mentioning a renewed partnership with Marc Coma. Alonso himself, however, declined to confirm these plans; he stated that if he were to decide on a new motorsport project, he would announce it himself.
Other racing series are also not currently under consideration
The Dakar was not the only topic at the press conference. Alonso was also asked about a potential outing in the GT3 category. Much like with rallying, he currently considers such a switch difficult.
Here, too, the Aston Martin driver pointed to the necessary preparation involved. A driver cannot simply switch to another racing series and immediately be competitive at the highest level; each discipline requires appropriate preparation. Alonso is thus continuing to focus on his role in Formula 1 and with Aston Martin.
Alonso eyeing Aston Martin
At the press conference, the Spaniard also spoke about his team’s current performance level. While Alonso was satisfied with the points secured after finishing eighth in the Malaysian race, he still does not see Aston Martin overall as being where the team wants to be.
He finds it striking how heavily the car’s performance depends on the specific conditions and race tracks. The vehicle can feel markedly different on various circuits, even though its basic configuration remains largely unchanged.
Preference for classic racetracks
Alonso also commented on the various types of Formula 1 circuits. By his own account, the Spaniard prefers classic tracks such as Monza, Barcelona, Zandvoort, or the former Sepang circuit. In his view, traditional courses offer drivers more opportunities to push the car to the limit, whereas street circuits are often characterized by walls, limited run-off areas, and fewer overtaking opportunities.
Alonso also showed an understanding of the changes in Formula 1 technology. While the earlier V8 and V10 engines were particularly appealing from a driver’s perspective, a return to those powertrain concepts is not realistic given today’s requirements.
Return to Dakar remains uncertain
It therefore remains an open question whether Fernando Alonso will actually compete in the Dakar again. The Spaniard did not confirm an entry for 2027, though he did not rule out a return to the desert classic altogether.
For Alonso, however, Formula 1 is currently the main focus. Should he decide to take on a new challenge at a later date, the question of preparation would likely play a decisive role.
