It’s a thunderbolt on the transfer market! While Otmar Szafnauer still claimed in recent hours that Alonso’s contract with Alpine F1 for 2023 (and 2024?) was a question of details to settleAston Martin F1 has announced that Fernando Alonso will join the team next year, moving from blue to green, in totally unexpected news.
The Spaniard will therefore replace Sebastian Vettel, certainly alongside Lance Stroll, when he was close to extending two years at Alpine F1. Aston Martin had to find convincing arguments to bring in the double world champion.
“The Aston Martin F1 team clearly has the energy and the commitment to win, so it is one of the most exciting teams in Formula 1 today. I have known Lawrence and Lance for many years and it’s obvious they have the ambition and the passion to succeed in Formula 1.” Alonso said.
“I’ve seen the team consistently attract great people with winning pedigrees, and realized the huge commitment to new facilities and resources at Silverstone.”
“Nobody in Formula 1 today shows greater vision and absolute commitment to winning, and that makes this a really exciting opportunity for me. I still have the thirst and the ambition to fight to be ahead, and I want to be part of an organization that is committed to learning, growing and succeeding.”
“We are all aware that there is a lot to do to be in front and that we must put all our energies into working together to find the performance. The passion and the desire to perform that I witnessed convinced me to maintain my enjoyment and commitment to F1. I intend to win again in this sport and so I have to take the opportunities that are right for me.”
This should make way for Oscar Piastri at Alpine F1 next year. The Australian is expected to drive alongside Esteban Ocon.