Fernando Alonso retires from Formula 1

Fernando Alonso has retired from Formula 1. The two-time world champions will not race in 2019 according to McLaren. The Spaniard will finish his career that began 17 years ago at the Australian Grand Prix.

He won his two championships with Renault in 2005 and 2006. The 37-year-old from Oviedo in the north of Spain started his racing career with Bennetton and moved from there to Minardi and also raced with Renault, Ferrari and McLaren. 

Zak Brown, the CEO of McLaren Racing said in a statement on the team's website: "Fernando is not only an outstanding ambassador for McLaren but also for Formula 1. His 17 years in the sport, as arguably the pre-eminent driver of his generation and undoubtedly an F1 great, have added another layer to Formula 1’s rich history.

“There is a time for everyone to make a change and Fernando has decided the end of this season to be his. We respect his decision, even if we believe he is in the finest form of his career. Our open dialogue with Fernando has meant we could plan for this eventuality.

“While evaluating his future during the past months, Fernando’s competitiveness has been undimmed. He has continued to perform at the highest level throughout, as we know he will do in the remaining nine races of this year’s championship."