Alpine have placed on record their thanks and gratitude to Fernando Alonso, but remain tight-lipped on who will replace the two-time World Champion.

Only a few hours into Formula 1’s official summer break, Aston Martin announced that Alonso has been chosen as the driver to replace the outgoing Sebastian Vettel, who is retiring from Formula 1 at the end of the 2022 campaign.

Alonso has signed a ‘multi-year’ contract with Aston Martin and will be partnered by Lance Stroll, the son of team owner, Lawrence.

The Spaniard’s departure means there is now a vacant seat at Alpine for the 2023 season alongside Esteban Ocon, with Alpine’s reserve and development driver Oscar Piastri at the top of many people’s shortlist to replace Alonso.