Formula One 2022: Aston Martin signing Fernando Alonso paves way for Oscar Piastri debut

Armed with an ‘intent to win’, Fernando Alonso has made a shock move to Aston Martin – and it could finally pave the way for Aussie Oscar Piastri.

The door has opened for Oscar Piastri. Picture: Daniel Pockett/Getty Images

Australia is a step closer to having two drivers on the Formula One grid with news Fernando Alonso has signed with Aston Martin, paving the way for Oscar Piastri to make his debut with Alpine.

After months of speculation, Spanish veteran Alonso has been confirmed as Sebastian Vettel’s replacement meaning Piastri is all but confirmed for a seat at Alpine alongside Esteban Ocon.

Vettel announced his retirement from F1 last week and while many expected Piastri to be sent on loan to Aston Martin, it is in fact Alonso that will make the switch.

Oscar Piastri could be in line to make his debut with Alpine. Picture: Robert Cianflone/Getty Images

NEWS: @AstonMartinF1 announces Fernando Alonso for 2023.

We are delighted to confirm that two-time #F1 World Champion @alo_oficial will join the team from next season on a multi-year contract.

Tap below to read more. ⬇️#WeClimbTogether

— Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant F1 Team (@AstonMartinF1) August 1, 2022

“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.”

The Spaniard made his F1 debut in 2001. After winning his world titles with Renault – the precursor to Alpine – he failed to add any more in two spells with McLaren and during a five-year stint with Ferrari.

In 2018, he left the sport to try his hand at other forms of racing, winning the Le Mans 24 Hours twice and taking part in the Indianapolis 500 and the Dakar Rally.

Alonso returned to Formula One with Alpine in 2021, clinching his 98th and most recent podium at that year’s Qatar GP. His last victory came at his home Grand Prix in Barcelona in 2013, but he is eager to add to his 32 race wins.

Fernando Alonso has signed with Aston Martin. Picture: JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP

“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 said.

“I intend to win again in this sport and therefore I have to take the opportunities that feel right to me.” Vettel, who scored 53 GP wins and won four successive championships with Red Bull from 2010 to 2013, had tipped his friend and protege Mick Schumacher, son of the legendary Michael Schumacher, to be his successor.

However, the British-based team which is still developing since Stroll took it over in 2020, have turned instead to the wealth of experience that Alonso can offer.

“The whole company is very excited to bring Fernando’s incredible experience and brilliant pace and racecraft to the team,” Aston Martin said in a statement.

“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 One team.”