Fernando Alonso at Alpine (2021–2022)

Fernando Alonso's two-year return to Formula 1 with Alpine from 2021 to 2022 was a compelling testament to his enduring skill, showcasing his ability to extract peak performance from a midfield car and ultimately reshaping the driver market with his unexpected departure.

How it began

Alonso's comeback was one of the most anticipated in recent F1 history, marking his return after a two-year sabbatical that included triumphs at Le Mans and participation in the Indy 500. He re-joined the Enstone-based outfit, rebranded as Alpine for 2021, a team with which he famously secured his two world championships when it was Renault. This reunion was framed as a fresh chapter for both driver and team, with Alonso bringing unparalleled experience and a relentless competitive drive to a squad aiming to climb the constructors' standings.

The partnership's character

The Alpine A521 and A522 cars were generally robust, capable of fighting for points but rarely challenging the front-runners. Alonso's tenure was defined by his trademark racecraft, strategic acumen, and an uncanny ability to maximize the car's potential, often delivering results that seemed beyond its inherent pace. His partnership with Esteban Ocon was a dynamic one, with both drivers pushing each other. Alonso's relentless pursuit of performance and his direct feedback were central to Alpine's technical development, even if the car's characteristics sometimes presented unique challenges. Similar to how George Russell at Williams (2019–2021) consistently over-delivered in a less competitive car, Alonso demonstrated that a top-tier driver could elevate a midfield package.

Key chapter in the seasons

The 2021 season saw Alonso quickly re-acclimatize, culminating in a memorable third-place finish at the Qatar Grand Prix, his first podium in seven years. Another highlight was his defensive masterclass at the Hungarian Grand Prix, holding off Lewis Hamilton for several crucial laps, which directly contributed to Ocon's maiden F1 victory. The 2022 season, however, was a narrative of stark contrasts. While Alonso frequently displayed top-ten qualifying pace, often outperforming Ocon, his season was plagued by an extraordinary number of reliability issues, particularly on race day. Despite these setbacks, he consistently fought for points, demonstrating resilience. The most significant moment of 2022, however, arrived off-track: a surprising announcement mid-season that Alonso would depart Alpine for in 2023. This move, which unfolded rapidly after Sebastian Vettel's retirement declaration, sent ripples through the driver market, leaving Alpine in a scramble for a replacement. The swiftness of the decision and its timing became a major talking point, echoing the kind of impactful driver market shifts seen when made his move to Ferrari.