‘What Are You Still Doing?’ Should Fernando Alonso Finally Call It Quits?

Fernando Alonso, the ageless warrior of Formula 1, is still revving engines and making headlines in 2024. But should he be? If you ask Dutch racer Tom Coronel, the answer is a resounding ‘NO!’ Or more like, ‘Get out of here, go!’ Coronel believes Alonso is overstaying his welcome in F1, calling him the sport’s “biggest disappointment” for the upcoming season.

Alonso: The Man Who Just Won’t Quit

At 43, Alonso is defying time, physics, and the collective patience of some motorsport insiders. Having made his debut in 2001 with Minardi, he climbed the ranks to win back-to-back world championships with Renault in 2005 and 2006. Since then, he has embarked on a rollercoaster ride through McLaren, Ferrari, Alpine, and Aston Martin. While his talent is undeniable, his inability to claim another title has been the subject of much debate.

In 2023, he reminded the world that he still had gas in the tank by securing eight podium finishes with Aston Martin. However, as his results dwindled in 2024, Coronel was quick to pull the ejector seat lever. According to the Dutch driver, Alonso’s time is up, and he should step aside for the younger generation.

‘Move Over, Grandpa!’ – The Case Against Alonso

Coronel’s comments, while brutal, echo a sentiment shared by some F1 fans and pundits. The argument? Alonso is taking up a valuable seat that could be better utilized by fresh talent. With the likes of Oscar Piastri, Liam Lawson, and Theo Pourchaire waiting in the wings, Alonso’s continued presence might be seen as a roadblock to progress.

And let’s not ignore the fact that F1 is increasingly becoming a young man’s game. Max Verstappen, Charles Leclerc, and Lando Norris are leading the charge, while drivers over 40 are almost unheard of in today’s high-intensity, physically demanding sport. If Kimi Räikkönen bowed out at 42, why is Alonso still here? Maybe because he’s too stubborn to let go.

There’s also the question of diminishing returns. While Alonso’s podiums in 2023 were impressive, his form in 2024 hasn’t exactly been earth-shattering. If a younger driver were in that seat, they might be developing for a long-term future rather than squeezing the last drops out of a veteran’s career.

But Wait – Has Alonso Still Got It?

For every critic waving Alonso toward the exit, there are just as many supporters holding the door shut. Let’s be honest—Formula 1 isn’t a charity; teams don’t keep drivers around for nostalgia’s sake. If Alonso still has a contract, it’s because Aston Martin sees value in him.

Sure, his race wins are a distant memory, but Alonso remains one of the most consistent drivers on the grid. His racecraft, experience, and ability to extract the maximum out of any car make him an asset. Who’s to say he won’t pull off another podium run in 2025? And let’s not forget the most exciting factor—legendary designer Adrian Newey’s upcoming Aston Martin project in 2026. Wouldn’t it be poetic if Alonso were to finally get his hands on a title-winning car at the twilight of his career?

Moreover, Alonso’s influence extends beyond the track. His feedback to engineers, mentorship of young talent, and relentless drive push his team to improve. Losing Alonso isn’t just about removing a driver; it’s about removing a force that elevates the entire team.

The F1 Retirement Club – Who Left Too Early, Who Stayed Too Long?

Formula 1 history is filled with legends who retired either too soon or too late. Nico Rosberg shocked the world by walking away at the peak of his career after winning the 2016 title. On the other hand, Michael Schumacher’s return with Mercedes from 2010 to 2012, while impressive in flashes, ultimately failed to match his past dominance.

Then there’s the case of Valentino Rossi in MotoGP—racing well into his 40s but eventually struggling to keep up with the next-gen stars. Alonso is walking a fine line between maintaining his legendary status and becoming a cautionary tale of staying past his prime.

History suggests that aging F1 drivers face a steep decline, but Alonso has defied those odds so far. Can he continue to prove the doubters wrong? Or is he setting himself up for an inevitable fall from grace?

What’s Next for Alonso?

If Alonso does retire (not that he seems remotely interested in the idea), what’s next? Could we see him take on a coaching role, mentoring young drivers like Sauber rookie Gabriel Bortoleto? Would he follow in the footsteps of Sebastian Vettel and dive into activism and philanthropy? Or does Alonso have one final act left, shocking the world with a miraculous title run before he finally rides off into the sunset?

Perhaps he’ll venture into Le Mans again or even take a shot at IndyCar, proving that his racing hunger isn’t limited to Formula 1. He’s already flirted with a Triple Crown dream (F1 Monaco GP, Le Mans 24 Hours, Indy 500), so why stop now?

Maybe, just maybe, Alonso thrives on proving people wrong. Every time critics say he’s finished, he pulls off something spectacular. Could 2025 be another masterstroke in his never-ending career?

The Verdict: Love Him or Hate Him, Alonso Won’t Go Quietly

So, should Fernando Alonso call it quits? If you’re Tom Coronel, the answer is obvious: pack your bags and leave. But if you’re a fan of watching one of the most skilled drivers in history continue to defy expectations, the answer might be different.

One thing is certain: Alonso won’t leave on anyone’s terms but his own. Whether he fades away gracefully or explodes into one last moment of glory, the story isn’t over yet.

So, to those yelling ‘Get out of here, go!’—be careful what you wish for. You might just miss him when he’s finally gone.