Fernando Alonso says that he will be “proud” if the Aston Martin Formula 1 squad becomes a race-winning team after he departs it in the future.
Following two years at Alpine, Alonso has jumped to Aston Martin for the 2023 campaign after signing a multi-year deal with the squad.
The Spaniard replaces Sebastian Vettel, who opted to retire at the conclusion of the 2022 campaign.
The two-time World Champion is taking on a fresh challenge after returning to the sport in 2021 for a crack at a title fight amid the introduction of new technical regulations.
However, Alpine was unable to jump out of the blocks amid the fresh rules, with Alonso taking one podium finish during his two campaigns with the French manufacturer.
Aston Martin is currently investing heavily in its F1 future, constructing a new factory at Silverstone.
Alonso says that the team’s determination to win in the near future was a key factor in his decision to join.
“Aston Martin F1 is taking the necessary steps to win in the near future,” he said.
“The team is determined to become a championship contender and will do whatever it takes to get there.
“This ambition is appealing to any racing driver. You see all the investment, the new factory, the talent joining the team, and you want to be part of it.
“And then there is the name, Aston Martin. It is, and always will be, an iconic brand in motorsport and the automotive industry.
“To write the next chapter in the brand’s history and become part of the Aston Martin family makes me very proud. This is a very special opportunity for me with this team at this moment in my career.”
At 41 years of age, it is likely that Alonso doesn’t have a multitude of years remaining in the sport as he hunts for an elusive third title.
However, even if the Silverstone-based squad becomes successful after his departure, Alonso asserts that he will still be proud to have played his part in helping it grow.
“I’ve been preparing physically and mentally for this challenge, and I see this project as a winning one,” he sad. “It’s a matter of time until Aston Martin is winning races and championships.
“Making that time as short as possible, this is my biggest challenge – but I’m ready for it.
“I will still be very proud if the team wins without me in the car. I will be very proud of the process and my contribution to the project.”
Alonso will be working alongside Lance Stroll, whose father Lawrence is the owner of the team.
Alonso praised the Canadian driver, insisting that he is a champion of the future in F1.
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