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via Getty

via Getty

Australian driver Oscar Piastri is the 2021 F2 champion. The Prema driver dominated the season and was by far the most consistent driver on the grid. However, Piastri will not be heading to Formula One grid next year, he will be doing something else.

Piastri joined the likes of Charles Leclerc and George Russell to win the F2 title in their rookie season. He is also the first driver since Leclerc to win three consecutive junior titles in a row.

In his post-race interview, Piastri was relieved after winning the title but sarcastically commented on his future.

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“Hopefully, I can be champion of sitting on the couch next year because that’s about all I will be driving…” said Piastri.

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F2 driver Oscar Piastri to join Alpine as reserve driver

As reported by Formulaone.com, the newly crowned F2 champion will join the Alpine as the reserve driver for the 2022 season. Piastri is an Alpine Academy driver, and he lost the chance to drive in F1 to a fellow Alpine Academy driver.

Guanyu Zhou, who is currently P3 in the F2 championship, will join the Alfa Romeo team in the 2021 season ahead of the Aussie. But, Piastri was not bitter about the decision and was looking forward, helping Alpine in the 2022 season.

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“I’m super excited to be joining Alpine F1 Team as Reserve Driver. I’m looking forward to being much more involved with the team and contributing to its intended success next season,” said Piastri.

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We will put together a substantial test program in order to keep developing myself to grow even more prepared for a race seat. I’m very thankful to Alpine for their support.” said the F2 champion.

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It’s sad that we will be denied the talent of Oscar on the F1 grid next year. But we hope to see the young Aussie helping the French team in the 2022 season.

READ MORE: Can F1 Teams Have 3 Drivers?