Alonso experience "invaluable" to Alpine Academy prospects

Alpine CEO Laurent Rossi has described the experience of two-time Formula 1 champion Fernando Alonso as "invaluable" to the five Academy drivers.

Alonso will return to F1 this year after walking away from the sport at the end of the 2018 season, albeit with his preparations recently disrupted after he fractured his jaw in a road accident while cycling.

But with 32 grands prix wins, 97 podiums and two world titles to his name, Rossi believes the Spaniard will naturally prove to be a useful asset to the team's academy prospects.

“Fernando has nearly 20 years of F1 to his name so his experience is invaluable to young, developing drivers," said Rossi. "From mental and physical training advice from how to get the best from the car.

“He is also very passionate about supporting the young driver talent through his own team initiatives and he has taken the time to get to know the current academy drivers. I’m sure he will be an inspiration to the squad.”

Of the five drivers in the Academy, Guanyu Zhou, Christian Lundgaard and Oscar Piastri will compete in F2 this year, with Caio Collet and Victor Martins placed at MP Motorsport in F3.

Zhou, Lundgaard and Piastri are all expected to be performing at the front, with Rossi suggesting he will be an interested spectator as the season plays out.

“This year the line-up is very strong," added Rossi. "We have consistency and a good balance of strength and personalities.

"Each driver is a proven championship or race winner. I’m very keen to watch the championships unfold this year."

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