Piastri confirmed at Alpine for 2023 after Alonso shock

Oscar Piastri has been confirmed at Alpine for the 2023 Formula 1 season, where the Australian will debut as Fernando Alonso's replacement.

Alpine were left with an unexpected spot free in their line-up after two-time world champion Alonso agreed a shock move to Aston Martin, and have promoted from within to source Esteban Ocon's next team-mate.

Piastri, 21, will arrive in F1 with a stellar reputation, having followed in Charles Leclerc and George Russell's footsteps by winning the Formula Three and Formula Two crowns, the latter in dominant fashion in 2021.

But with Alpine's line-up filled for 2022 and other avenues closed, Piastri took a 'year off' racing as the team's reserve driver.

Alpine were keen to get him onto the grid for next season and Alonso's exit - with the Spaniard replacing Sebastian Vettel - opened a door in-house, and Piastri will have a chance to show his talent in a competitive seat.

Alpine are currently fourth in the constructors' standings, four points ahead of midfield rivals McLaren.

"Oscar is a bright and rare talent," said Alpine boss Otmar Szafnauer. "We are proud to have nurtured and supported him through the difficult pathways of the junior formulae.

"Through our collaboration over the past four years, we have seen him develop and mature into a driver who is more than capable of taking the step up to Formula 1.

"As our reserve driver he has been exposed to the team at the track, factory and testing where he has shown the maturity, promise and speed to ensure his promotion to our second seat alongside Esteban.

"Together, we believe the duo will give us the continuity we need to achieve our long-term goal of challenging for wins and championships."

Piastri will be the second Australian on the