Alonso makes stunning Aston Martin move

Ian Parkes
Monday 1 August 2022 09:04 - Updated: 12:03

Fernando Alonso has made a shock switch to Aston Martin as the replacement for the retiring Sebastian Vettel.

Two-time champion Alonso appeared set to re-sign with Alpine from 2023 after a year and a half with the French outfit with whom he has long stated he has felt comfortable.

But the 41-year-old Spanish driver has opted to sign a multi-year contract with Aston Martin, who only last week announced the departure of four-time champion Vettel.

Aston claims "the whole company is very excited to bring Fernando’s incredible experience and brilliant pace and racecraft to the team".

It added: "The recruitment of a special talent such as Fernando is a clear statement of intent from an organisation that has committed to developing a winning Formula 1 team."

Alonso will be partnered by Lance Stroll as Aston Martin has confirmed the Canadian, son of owner Lawrence, will continue with the team in 2023.

Despite Aston's struggles this season under the new aerodynamic rules, Alonso is convinced it will turn him into a winner again.

"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," said Alonso.

"I have known Lawrence [Stroll] and Lance for many years and it is very obvious that they have the ambition and passion to succeed in Formula 1.

"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.

"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.

"We all appreciate that there is much to be done to get to the front, and that we must apply all our energies in working together to find performance.

"The passion and desire to perform that I have witnessed convince me to maintain my enjoyment and commitment to the sport.

"I intend to win again in this sport and therefore I have to take the opportunities that feel right to me.”