Montoya sees Aston Martin facing a major driver dilemma – Aston Martin could potentially have two vacancies to fill for the 2028 Formula 1 season if the team’s performance does not improve significantly, according to former Grand Prix winner Juan Pablo Montoya.
While Fernando Alonso’s long-term future has already been questioned because of his age, Montoya believes Lance Stroll could also eventually decide to walk away if the team fails to deliver a competitive car.
The prediction comes after a difficult opening half of the 2026 season for Aston Martin. Despite substantial investment from team owner Lawrence Stroll, the Silverstone-based squad has struggled to translate its resources into consistent results.
The team’s problems were particularly evident during the early part of the campaign, with the Adrian Newey designed AMR26 failing to deliver the level of performance expected from a project built around major technical changes and Honda’s new works partnership.
Aston Martin showed signs of progress in Hungary
There have, however, been signs that Aston Martin is beginning to understand its 2026 package. A significant upgrade introduced at the Hungarian Grand Prix produced a noticeable step forward in performance.
Neither Alonso nor Stroll was able to score points at the Hungaroring, but the team’s pace was considered an improvement over its earlier form. Stroll finished 13th, with Alonso following in 14th.
The next major opportunity comes at Zandvoort, where Honda is expected to introduce further improvements to its power unit. Honda has been Aston Martin’s works engine partner since the start of the 2026 season, with the RA626H developed specifically for the new regulations.
Montoya questions Lance Stroll’s long-term commitment
Alonso’s future is naturally one of the biggest questions surrounding Aston Martin. The two-time world champion turned 45 on July 29, making the question of how long he intends to continue racing increasingly relevant.
However, Montoya believes the bigger surprise could come from Stroll. Speaking to F1 Maximaal, the Colombian suggested that even the fact Stroll is the son of Aston Martin’s team owner does not guarantee his continued presence in the cockpit.
“Stroll will leave the team if the car isn’t improved. If the GP car isn’t more competitive next year, then the team will have two open seats for 2028.”
Montoya went further, arguing that Stroll’s patience could eventually run out regardless of his family connection to the team.
“Sooner or later, the Aston Martin team will be racing without Lance Stroll. Maybe next year, maybe the year after,” the seven-time Grand Prix winner stated.
Aston Martin’s 2027 season could be decisive
The team has committed heavily to its Honda partnership and Adrian Newey-led technical project, with the 2026 regulations creating an opportunity to establish a new competitive foundation. Honda itself describes the Aston Martin relationship as a works partnership beginning with the 2026 season.
A sustained lack of progress, however, could create uncertainty at both ends of the driver lineup. Alonso’s eventual retirement is inevitable, while Montoya believes Stroll could independently decide that his future lies elsewhere outside of F1.
Neither driver’s departure for 2028 is confirmed, and Montoya’s comments remain a prediction rather than an announcement. Aston Martin’s progress through the remainder of 2026 and into 2027 will ultimately determine whether the Colombian’s striking forecast becomes reality.
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