Aston Martin's problems have been alarming, given Alonso's 18th-placed finish at the Japanese Grand Prix last time out is the only race they have managed to complete. 

Those results come after significant spending in the lead-up to the new season, which saw several new regulations introduced that many teams have struggled to adapt to. 

One of those expenses was incurred by hiring legendary designer Adrian Newey, who recently stepped back from his leadership role with the team. 

Severe vibrations have limited running due to fears of permanent nerve damage to drivers Alonso and Lance Stroll, while they have also struggled with engine and battery issues. 

When it was put to him by Crash.net that the car's reliability had improved in Japan, Alonso said: "Yeah. Obviously, on the positive side, yes, that is true.

"We had running without too many issues the last two weekends, but in terms of performance, we are at the back, so it's not really.

"You don't find any satisfaction when you are not competitive. But we try to stay together, to stay strong, and give time to both factories to fix this. They are working flat out.

Suzuka Sundays.

We forge into your break with your support pushing us forward.#JapaneseGP pic.twitter.com/l6tsGkuCcm

— Aston Martin Aramco F1 Team (@AstonMartinF1) March 29, 2026

"There are a couple of improvements, a couple of ideas. But in Formula One, it doesn't happen from night to day, and you need to spend a few months with the current car.

"We will not change too many things on this car if we know it will change completely in a few months' time. So that is the situation we have."

The F1 season resumes in Miami at the start of May, after both the Bahrain and Saudi Arabia races were cancelled due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.