Sebastian Vettel Retires, Aston Martin Signs Senior Driver Fernando Alonso

JAKARTA - The 2023 Formula (F1) season will present a new challenge for Fernando Alonso. He officially joined the Aston Martin team that had just left Sebastian Vettel.

Through their official website and Twitter account, Aston Martin said Alonso would sign a long contract starting in F1 2023.

"Aston Martin is delighted to confirm that Fernando Alonso will join the team in 2023 on a multi-year contract. The entire company is excited to bring Fernando's incredible experience and brilliant racing speed and expertise to the team," wrote Aston Martin.

"The signing of a specialized talent like Fernando is a testament to an organization that is committed to developing an excellent F1 team."

Alonso is the 2005 and 2006 F1 world champion. Having left F1 in 2019 to appear in IndyCar in the United States, Alonso returned to F1 with Alpine starting the 2021 season.

Alonso certainly has high hopes to be able to compete for the victory podium. He said Aston Martin could help make it happen.

"This Aston Martin team has clearly applied energy and commitment to winning, and as such is one of the most exciting teams in F1 at the moment," said Alonso of the decision to join Aston Martin.

Throughout his career the Spaniard collected 32 wins and 98 podium finishes. Alonso also has a record 346 starts in F1.

Alonso's last victory occurred at the 2013 Spanish Grand Prix while still strengthening for Ferrari. While the last podium achieved by Alonso at the F1 GP Qatar last season.