Official: Fernando Alonso will leave Formula 1 at the end of the season

Today McLaren officially confirmed the news that had been in the air for some time. Fernando Alonso will leave Formula 1 at the end of the season.

After a career of 17 seasons, two world titles, 32 victories, 97 podiums and many battles, the Spaniard will leave the Circus, where he will be remembered as one of the champions who, for better or for worse, have written the history of this sport. Over the years Fernando has always been a protagonist, from his years in Renault and the challenges with Michael Schumacher, through the internal rivalry with Lewis Hamilton at McLaren, without forgetting his talent and his efforts put at the service of Ferrari to bring the title back to Maranello.

“Fernando is not only a fantastic ambassador for McLaren, but also for Formula 1. His 17 years, which made him the best driver of his generation and one of the greatest in the sport, have added another page to the rich history of Formula 1” – said Zak Brown commenting on the Spanish driver's farewell -. “There comes a time for everyone to make a change and Fernando decided that this change needed to be made at the end of this season. We respect his decision, although we believe he is in the best shape he has ever been in his career,” added the McLaren Chief Executive Officer.

“After 17 wonderful years in this amazing sport it's time to make a change and move forward. I have enjoyed every minute of these incredible seasons and I thank all the people who helped make them all so special. There are still many Grands Prix in this season finale and I will be at the start putting more passion and commitment than ever. Let's see what the future holds for me. New exciting challenges are around the corner. I am in one of the best moments of my life, but I feel the need to move forward and have new adventures” commented Alonso.

However, the Spaniard did not deny a possible return to the top flight when McLaren returns to compete at high levels: "I know that they [McLaren, ed.] will return stronger in the future and maybe that will be the time to return to Formula 1, it would make me really happy” added the two-time world champion.

At the moment the driver from Oviedo has not yet announced what his plans are for next season, but it is conceivable that after having won the 24 hours of Le Mans 2018, his goal is to be able to conquer the triple crown, winning the Indianapolis 500.