During the summer break of 2022, it seemed routine that Fernando Alonso would extend his contract with Alpine, who were in pole position to secure the best of the rest crown in the championship.
Sebastian Vettel’s retirement sent the paddock into overdrive, with Aston Martin desperately searching for a replacement for the German.
Team owner Lawrence Stroll shocking managed to convince Fernando Alonso to sign for the team for 2023, despite being seventh in the constructors’ championship.
Whilst Alonso was certainly incentivised by Aston Martin to sign for them, the Spaniard would also have been happy to leave Alpine, such was his withering relationship with the team.
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The 41-year-old was forced to retire from a shocking six races in 2022, with engine problems plaguing the Spaniard over the course of the season.
This led Alonso to believe that his teammate Esteban Ocon was receiving favourable treatment and after a number of clashes with the Frenchman, their relationship turned toxic.
Before the season finale in Abu Dhabi, Alonso and Ocon address the fans in the paddock, with the Spaniard admitting that he was happy to see the back of Alpine.
“It’s going to be emotional tomorrow. Last race with Alpine,” he said.
“I will miss being with them, but hopefully we can have a competition.”
Ocon then told the crowd that Alonso was lying at that he was happy to go, to which Alonso admitted he was right.
“I’m happy to go! But hopefully next year, we go to a more competitive car,” said Alonso.
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The Spaniard’s wishes have come true this season, as Aston Martin have come on leaps and bounds and were the second-fastest team at the Bahrain Grand Prix.
Alonso scored a podium on his debut for the team whilst Alpine battled to score two points, proving that the 41-year-old made the right decision to leave Alpine last season.
The tracks in Saudi Arabia and Australia will present different challenges for Aston Martin but judging by testing and the race in Bahrain, the team could be in for a very strong season.