Following the sudden retirement of four-time Formula 1 legend and all-around great human Sebastian Vettel, the Internet was abuzz with plenty of rumors about who would fill in the gap that was left by the German driver.

But to everyone’s shock, the two-time world champion Fernando Alonso will be filling that vacant seat with a multiyear contract that was genuinely surprising considering the Spaniard had just recently signed a contract extension until 2024 with his current team, Alpine.

He has constantly managed to extract the most out of the machinery despite his age, like how he managed to qualify second at this year’s Canadian Grand Prix, finished third on the podium in the 2021 Qatar Grand Prix, and held off a faster Lewis Hamilton for several exciting laps at the 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix, which led to teammate Esteban Ocon‘s maiden win.

But it seems that Alonso wasn’t satisfied with Alpine’s performance, which led to his sudden departure for the Silverstone-based team. He announced this today on his Instagram account:

I’m happy to share that in 2023, I will join Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant F1. This is a really exciting opportunity and I’m thankful for the trust placed in me on this multiyear adventure.

I still have the hunger and ambition to fight to be at the front, and I want to be part of an organization that is committed to learn, develop and succeed.

I have watched as the team has systematically attracted great people with winning pedigrees, and I have become aware of this huge commitment and desire to win.

As for who will take his slot at Alpine, we’re expecting it to be 2021 Formula 2 champion Oscar Piastri, who currently serves as the team’s reserve driver.