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Nate Saunders
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F1 Associate Editor- • Used to work in the British rugby union and Superbikes
• Graduated in history from the University of Reading
• Joined ESPNF1 in February 2014 -
Laurence Edmondson
Fernando Alonso will replace retired Sebastian Vettel at Aston Martin next season, the Formula 1 team confirmed on Monday.
The two-time world champion signed a multi-year contract with the team.
Aston Martin quickly moves to secure Alonso’s services after Vettel announced his retirement on Thursday.
The move opens the door for Alpine to give Formula Two champion Oscar Piastri a seat in next season’s race.
Alonso said recently on Thursday that he is looking to stay at Alpine, where he was for two years before returning to F1.
It means Alonso will team up with Lance Stroll, son of Aston Martin owner Lawrence, next year.
“This Aston Martin team is clearly applying energy and commitment to winning, and therefore it is one of the most exciting teams in Formula One today,” said Alonso. in a statement. “I have known Lawrence and Lance for many years and it is obvious that they have the ambition and passion to succeed in Formula One.
“I still have the desire and ambition to fight to the top, and I want to be part of an organization committed to learning, growing, and succeeding. We all appreciate that there is more work to do. do to get ahead, and that we must apply all of our energy as we work together to find performance.
“The passion and desire to perform that I have witnessed convinces me to maintain my love and commitment to the sport. I intend to win again in the sport and So I have to take the opportunities that are right for me.”
Alonso returns to F1 in 2021 after two years of not being able to race in the World Endurance Championship and trying to win the Indy 500.
He had hoped to claim three motorsport crowns, including victories at Monaco in F1, Le Mans 24 Hours and the Indy 500. However, after missing the Indy 500, he returned to F1.
Lawrence Stroll added: “I have known and admired Fernando for many years and it has always been clear that he is a committed winner just like me.
“Therefore, it seemed natural to invite Fernando to participate in the development of a winning team, and we were quick to assert in recent conversations that we share the same ambitions and values, and it is reasonable and easy to confirm the desire to work together.”
