Alonso’s contract with Alpine has been extended through 2022.
As a result, the relationship will continue for a second season after Ocon signed a three-year contract earlier this season.
Alpine confirmed Fernando Alonso as Esteban Ocon’s partner for the 2022 season on Thursday, fresh off their first win in Hungary.
Alonso’s racing strategy in holding off a charging Lewis Hamilton in Hungary last month aided Ocon win a spectacular first Grand Prix victory.
As a result, the relationship will continue for a second season after Ocon signed a three-year contract earlier this season.
“Fernando’s outstanding teamwork, unrivaled expertise, and race craft will serve as strong foundations for Alpine F1 Team’s continued success,” the team said in a statement.
Alpine is banking on the 40-year-old Spaniard’s experience to guide them through the transition to the new regulations, which will take effect next year.
Alonso’s fourth-place finish, his best since 2014, was “pivotal” in giving the rebranded Renault team their first victory in their new colors, according to Alpine.
“Further, Fernando put in a fantastic display of overtaking savvy in the race restart to the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, followed by a similarly clever performance just a month later in Formula 1’s first ever Sprint Qualifying in Silverstone,” the company added.
Alpine said ahead of this weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix that their driver lineup is a wonderful blend of Ocon’s youth and Alonso’s experience.
Alpine will arrive at the Spa-Francorchamps track with Ocon in 10th place in the drivers’ standings, one position ahead of Alonso, and the team in fifth place in the constructors’ standings.
“The moment I returned to this team, I felt at home, and I was welcomed back with open arms,” said Alonso, who won two world titles for the team during its Renault era in 2005 and 2006.
“I’m looking forward to the rest of this year and racing for Alpine in 2022 alongside Esteban,” he continued.
