Rumors of Fernando Alonso’s potential Red Bull seat in 2024, sparked by discussions with Christian Horner, have stirred excitement and curiosity in the Formula 1 world. As Alonso celebrates his 400th race at the Mexican Grand Prix, this speculation adds a new chapter to the career of one of F1’s most seasoned drivers. Known for his 2005 and 2006 World Championships and a total of 32 race wins, Alonso’s last championship triumph was nearly two decades ago, with his last win in 2013 for Ferrari. Since then, questions about his team choices have lingered, especially as he now drives with Aston Martin under a contract lasting until 2026.

Alonso’s career paths have often missed Red Bull opportunities, a fact Horner recently confirmed. In the early years, Alonso’s brief discussions with Red Bull never materialized, leaving fans wondering about the “what if” moments that could have seen him in a top-tier car alongside the likes of Sebastian Vettel. Alonso recently admitted he was close to Red Bull twice, first in 2007 and then after the 2008 Belgian Grand Prix, with conversations held under cover of night. Yet, despite these near-moves, Alonso returned to Renault and later joined Ferrari, where his intense rivalry with Vettel defined F1’s early 2010s.

This year, Red Bull revisited the Alonso possibility as they evaluated Sergio Perez’s future amid political changes within the team. At 43, Alonso’s remarkable endurance and adaptability were seen as assets; Horner praised his fitness and competitive spirit. Although Alonso ultimately committed to Aston Martin, Red Bull’s openness suggests the team remains intrigued by his experience. This persistent curiosity around Alonso’s options shows that, while age may seem like a factor, his capability in F1 is undiminished.

The overlapping narratives of Red Bull’s evolving driver lineup and Alonso’s extensive legacy highlight a compelling storyline within F1: the unpredictable twists that shape its stars’ legacies. As the 2024 season approaches, Alonso’s choices underscore the ongoing drama of F1’s career trajectories, where every negotiation can set the stage for a seismic shift in the sport’s landscape.