Fernando Alonso makes shock move to Aston Martin on multi-year deal

Fernando Alonso has shocked the Formula 1 paddock by jumping from Alpine to Aston Martin.

Earlier last week, four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel confirmed he would be retiring from the sport after making his debut in 2007.

With this, it was expected that the likes of Mick Schumacher or Nico Hulkenberg would take his place alongside Lance Stroll for the 2023 season.

However, in a shock move, Alonso has opted to leave Alpine to join Aston Martin, with the Spaniard confirmed to have signed a multi-year deal with the Silverstone-based squad.

It was expected that Aston Martin would have preferred a driver with more experience and, at the age of 41, there is no better driver to sign in that field.

Speaking about the move, he said:

“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 One today.

“I have known Lawrence and Lance for many years and it is very obvious that they have the ambition and passion to succeed in Formula One.

“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 One today is demonstrating a greater vision and absolute commitment to winning, and that makes it a really exciting opportunity for me.”

However, Alonso did admit that it will not be easy, but feels that he has the passion to do so, adding:

“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.”

With a seat now free at Alpine, it is highly expected that 2021 Formula 2 champion Oscar Piastri will line-up alongside Esteban Ocon next year.

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