Alonso jokes grandstand view beats racing as Aston Martin struggles in Barcelona

Fernando Alonso turned his Aston Martin’s miserable form at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya into a moment of self-deprecating comedy on Sunday, joking to Spanish TV during the pre-race drivers’ parade that watching the Spanish Grand Prix from the grandstands would be “better than in the car.”

The two-time world champion stepped off the flatbed truck during the parade lap and ran toward the crowd, throwing merchandise to fans before delivering the quip that quickly went viral. The gag landed with particular bite given the context: Alonso had qualified 22nd and was forced to start from the pitlane after Aston Martin made setup changes following a difficult Saturday session.

The moment was laced with a deeper poignancy, however. Speaking at the drivers’ press conference ahead of the race, Alonso acknowledged that this weekend could mark the end of an era for him at his home circuit.

“It’s going to be a special weekend, probably my last Barcelona race in Formula 1,” the 44-year-old said. “So, I want to say thanks to everyone. I will try to enjoy the weekend. I will not be competitive and I will not be too long in the car in qualifying, and in the race, hopefully yes, but not at the pace that we all want. But I want everyone to still enjoy the weekend.”

Alonso reflected on a long and celebrated history at the venue, describing it as a place that has consistently delivered memorable occasions throughout his career. “It has always been a celebration when they come to Barcelona,” he said. “I think it’s my 23rd Spanish Grand Prix, and all of them have been magical. And this last has to be magical as well.”

Barcelona will drop off the Formula 1 calendar in 2027 under an alternating arrangement with Spa-Francorchamps, before returning in 2028, 2030 and 2032. Whether Alonso will still be on the grid by then remains an open question — one the Spaniard himself appears to be leaving unanswered for now.