Double World Champion Fernando Alonso is seemingly very excited about beginning his relationship with Aston Martin, with the Spaniard believing that “good times are coming” for the Silverstone-based outfit.
Alonso’s switch to Aston Martin wasn’t expected, with most having been certain that the Spaniard would remain at Alpine; however, the French outfit’s offer is believed to have not been what the 41-year-old wanted.
His switch to Aston Martin is on a two-year deal with the option for a third, which means Alonso could be in Formula 1 until he is 44 years old.
Alonso endured a difficult 2022 campaign, with the veteran having looked blisteringly quick the majority of the time, only for poor power unit reliability to ridicule his campaign.
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He retired from six races last season, with the Spaniard believing he lost 70 points as a result of his car’s shocking reliability.
His relationship with Alpine ultimately broke down, with his departure seemingly being the best thing for both parties.
Aston Martin will have a challenge on their hands with Alonso onboard; however, they have also got a driver who can take them towards their goal of becoming a frontrunning side thanks to his vast experience.
With a new factory being built, and following a strong recruitment drive, Alonso has high hopes for Aston Martin, whose project he hails as “amazing”.
“Happy to finish this chapter [at Alpine] and start with new motivation,” Alonso told reporters.
“With Aston [Martin], their project is amazing what they are doing in terms of recruiting people, facilities, investment. So yeah, I think good times are coming.”
Alonso has been very critical of Alpine and hasn’t always spoken about them in the best of light since announcing his departure at the Hungarian Grand Prix, with the driver appearing to have to be reminded of how much the outfit did for him.
It was Alpine, of course, who brought Alonso back into the sport, whilst also being the side (formerly known as Renault) whom the Spanish driver claimed both of his titles for in 2005 and 2006.
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He is aware of how much the Enstone-based team did for him and is “very grateful” for the time he spent with them, whilst also wishing them the “best of luck” going forward.
“Of course. I’m very grateful and I will always think of Alpine and Renault with good memories,” Alonso added.
“We won the two championships, I spent nine years of my life in Formula 1 with Renault or Alpine, so I will be thankful always, and wishing them the best of luck next year [2023].”