FORMULA ONE legend Fernando Alonso has extended his contract with Alpine for another year.
The extension will see his incredible F1 career reach beyond the 20-year mark, having debuted in 2001 as a teenager.
Alonso, 40, has impressed since returning to the grid, following two years out after his McLaren departure.
The Spaniard’s form made triggering an extra year in his contract an easy decision for Alpine.
Upon the news, Alonso said: “I’m very happy to confirm the contract extension with Alpine F1 Team into 2022.
“I felt at home the moment I returned to this team and have been welcomed back with open arms.
“It is a pleasure to work again with some of the brightest minds in our sport at Enstone and Viry-Chatillon.
“It’s been a tricky season for everyone, but we’ve shown progress as a team and the result in Hungary serves as a good example of this progression.
JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
“We’re targeting more positive memories for the rest of this season but also crucially from next year onwards with the new regulation changes coming into Formula 1.
“I have been a big supporter of the need for a level playing field and change in the sport and the 2022 season will be a great opportunity for that.
“I am looking forward to the rest of this year and racing alongside Esteban (Ocon) in 2022 for Alpine.”
While no longer a championship contender, Alonso, who was twice a champion with Alpine under their former guise as Renault, showed off his skills in the recent Hungarian Grand Prix.
Having qualified in ninth, Alonso rose through the grid impressively, going toe to toe with Lewis Hamilton and even leading the race before eventually coming fourth.
