Fernando Alonso is one of the most successful and popular drivers in Formula 1 history. In his illustrious career, the Spaniard has won two world championships, 32 races, and 97 podiums. He is also known for his fierce competitiveness, versatility across different racing disciplines, and charismatic personality.
This article will provide an overview of Alonso’s life, career, net worth, earnings, wife, and height.
About Fernando Alonso
Fernando Alonso was born in Oviedo, Spain on July 29, 1981. He started karting at three and won several national and international titles as a junior. He made his Formula 1 debut in 2001 with Minardi, becoming the third-youngest driver to start a race. He moved to Renault in 2002 and became a test driver for the team.
In 2003, he became a full-time driver for Renault and won his first race in Hungary, becoming the youngest race winner in F1 history. He also scored four podiums and finished sixth in the championship.
Early Life
Alonso’s passion for racing was influenced by his father, Jose Luis Alonso, an amateur kart racer and mechanic. Alonso’s mother, Ana Díaz, worked in a department store. Alonso has an older sister named Lorena, who is a doctor. Alonso grew up in a modest apartment in Oviedo and attended a public school.
He was a good student but also devoted much time to karting. He received his first kart as a present from his father when he was three years old and soon showed his talent and speed. He competed in various regional and national championships and won several titles. He also participated in international events such as the Junior World Cup and the European Championship.
Career
Alonso’s F1 career took off in 2005 when he won his first world championship with Renault, beating Kimi Raikkonen and Michael Schumacher. He became the youngest world champion in F1 history and the first Spanish driver to win the title.
He joined Ferrari in 2010, hoping to emulate his idol, Schumacher. Alonso stayed with Ferrari until 2014 but failed to win another title despite coming close twice.
He rejoined McLaren in 2015, hoping to revive the team’s glory days with Honda as their engine supplier. However, the partnership was a disaster, as McLaren-Honda struggled with reliability and power issues for three years.
Alonso decided to take a break from F1 at the end of 2018 and pursue other racing challenges. He competed in the World Endurance Championship (WEC) with Toyota Gazoo Racing. He won the prestigious Le Mans 24 Hours twice (in 2018 and 2019), becoming only the second driver after Graham Hill to win both Le Mans and F1 titles. He also won the WEC title with Toyota in 2018-19.
Fernando Alonso’s Net Worth Details
Fernando Alonso’s net worth is estimated to be between $250 to $260 million as of 2025. He makes most of his money from his salary as a Formula One driver, which is reported to be $40 million per year.
He also earns from endorsements, sponsorships, and personal investments. Some of his sponsors include Kimoa, Oakley, Santander, and Alpine.
Personal Information
| Full Name | Fernando Alonso Díaz |
| Born | July 29, 1981 |
| Birthplace | Oviedo, Asturias, Spain |
| Nationality | Spanish |
| Age | 41 |
| Height | 1.71 m (5 ft 7 in) |
| Current Team | Alpine |
| Major Titles | Formula One World Champion (2005, 2006) |
| Net Worth | $250 million – $260 million |
| Highest Ranking | 1st (2005, 2006) |
| Relationship Status | Single |
| Spouse | Raquel del Rosario (m. 2006; div. 2011) |
| Instagram ID | @fernandoalo_oficial |
| Twitter ID | @alo_oficial |
Wife
Fernando Alonso married Raquel del Rosario, a Spanish singer, and songwriter, in November 2006. They divorced in 2011. He currently has a relationship with an Italian model Linda Morselli.
Career Stats
| Year | Team | Races | Wins | Podiums | Poles | Points | Position |
| 2001 | Minardi | 17 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 23rd |
| 2003 | Renault | 16 | 1 | 4 | 2 | 55 | 6th |
| 2004 | Renault | 18 | 0 | 4 | 0 | 59 | 4th |
| 2005 | Renault | 19 | 7 | 15 | 6 | 133 | 1st |
FAQs
Who is Fernando Alonso?
Fernando Alonso is a Spanish Formula One racing driver born in Oviedo, Spain, on July 29, 1981. He’s a two-time World Champion and one of the greatest F1 drivers ever. He currently races for Aston Martin and has previously driven for teams like Renault, McLaren, and Ferrari.
What are Fernando Alonso’s biggest achievements in Formula One?
Alonso’s biggest achievements include winning two World Championships in 2005 and 2006 with Renault. He’s also won 32 Grand Prix races, secured 22 pole positions, and has 106 podium finishes. He holds several records, including being the youngest driver to win a pole position and a Grand Prix.
How did Fernando Alonso start his racing career?
Alonso started karting at the incredibly young age of three. His father built him a kart from discarded parts, and he won his first karting championship at age six. He progressed through various racing series before making his F1 debut with Minardi in 2001.
What’s Fernando Alonso’s driving style like?
Alonso is known for his versatile and aggressive driving style. He’s particularly skilled at adapting to different cars and conditions. He’s known for his excellent race craft, strategic thinking, and ability to extract the maximum performance from his car.
Has Fernando Alonso raced in motorsports other than Formula One?
Yes, Alonso has competed in other motorsports. He won the 24 Hours of Le Mans twice (2018 and 2019) and the FIA World Endurance Championship. He’s also competed in the Indianapolis 500 and the Dakar Rally.
What teams has Fernando Alonso raced for in Formula One?
Alonso has raced for several teams throughout his F1 career. He started with Minardi, then moved to Renault where he won his two championships. He’s also driven for McLaren, Ferrari, and Alpine. Currently, he races for Aston Martin.
What’s Fernando Alonso like off the track?
Off the track, Alonso is known for his strong work ethic and determination. He’s a fitness enthusiast and enjoys cycling. He’s also involved in various charitable activities and has his karting school. Alonso is known to be private about his personal life.
What are some of Fernando Alonso’s most memorable races?
Some of Alonso’s most memorable races include his first win at the 2003 Hungarian Grand Prix, his victory at the 2006 Japanese Grand Prix to clinch his second world title, and his win at the 2012 European Grand Prix in Valencia, where he came from 11th on the grid to win in front of his home crowd.
Has Fernando Alonso faced any major challenges or controversies in his career?
Yes, Alonso has faced several challenges. He had a difficult season with McLaren in 2007, which led to tensions with his teammate Lewis Hamilton. During his second stint at McLaren from 2015 to 2018, he also struggled with uncompetitive cars. 2008 he was involved in the “Crashgate” scandal, though he was cleared of any wrongdoing.
What’s next for Fernando Alonso?
As of 2024, Alonso continues to race in Formula One with Aston Martin. He’s shown impressive form, securing multiple podium finishes. At 42, he’s the oldest driver on the grid, but he continues demonstrating his skill and competitiveness. He’s expressed interest in continuing to race as long as he feels competitive and motivated.
