In a surprise turn of events, Aston Martin has confirmed that Fernando Alonso will join the team from 2023 onwards. The two-time F1 world champion will be replacing Sebastian Vettel, who recently announced he will be retiring from F1 at the end of this season.
Alonso joins Aston Martin on multi-year deal
After a two-year sabbatical, Alonso made his F1 comeback with Alpine in 2021. The Spaniard was largely expected to remain with the team, but in a shock turn of events, he will be moving to Aston Martin next year.
Aston Martin has confirmed that Alonso has signed a “multi-year” contract with the team. However, the duration of this contract has not been disclosed.
"This Aston Martin team is clearly applying the energy and commitment to win, and it is therefore one of the most exciting teams in Formula 1 today,” Alonso said.
"I have watched as the team has systematically attracted great people with winning pedigrees, and I have become aware of the huge commitment to new facilities and resources at Silverstone. No one in Formula 1 today is demonstrating a greater vision and absolute commitment to winning, and that makes it a really exciting opportunity for me.”
At 40 years old, he’s five years older than Vettel, but he’s reiterated his desire to succeed in F1 – “I still have the hunger and ambition to fight to be at the front, and I want to be part of an organisation that is committed to learn, develop and succeed.”
Alonso a “natural fit” for Aston Martin
In the wake of Vettel’s retirement announcement, Alonso emerged as a clear favourite to replace the German. With Aston Martin still building its team, it would be looking for someone with experience to partner Lance Stroll. And given that it’s a works team, the driver would also have to fit the high-profile billing to be an Aston Martin spokesperson.
Aston Martin’s executive chairman, Lawrence Stroll, said “it seemed natural therefore to invite Fernando to be part of the development of a winning team, and we very quickly established in our recent conversations that we have the same ambitions and values, and it was logical and easy to confirm our desire to work together."
Alonso also holds the all-time record for the most laps completed in F1. Team principal Mike Krack highlights what Alonso’s experience brings to the table. “We know that nearly everyone can learn from someone of Fernando's calibre and experience. We are confident that he will inspire everyone to lift their game, and that will only enhance the already infectious energy that exists within the team,” he explained.
"We are on a journey to create a winning organisation, and it is clear that Fernando will accelerate our progress and bring us to a performance in which we can take pride.”
Who will replace Alonso at Alpine
Reigning Formula 2 champion Oscar Piastri is a favourite to replace Alonso at Alpine. The Australian is already the team’s reserve driver and is expected to get a practice outing at either Spa or Monza this year.
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