Fernando Alonso

Fernando Alonso was born in Oviedo, Spain, in 1981 and began karting at a very young age with the support of his family. His rise through junior categories was rapid, and he made his Formula 1 debut with Minardi in 2001. Renault soon brought him into its programme, where his speed, race intelligence and fierce competitive instincts made him one of the defining drivers of the 2000s. Alonso won back-to-back world championships with Renault in 2005 and 2006, ending Ferrari and Michael Schumacher’s long dominance. Later spells with McLaren, Ferrari, Alpine and Aston Martin showed different sides of his career: title fights, political tension, endurance outside F1 and remarkable longevity. Even in difficult cars, he often produced results that exceeded expectations. By 2026, Alonso remains one of Formula 1’s most experienced and respected competitors. His race craft, defensive skill and ability to read a Grand Prix remain elite. More than two decades after his debut, he is still judged not only by past titles but by the intensity and intelligence he brings to every season.