Fernando Alonso shocked the entire grid by joining Aston Martin soon after Sebastian Vettel’s retirement. The Spanish driver was, in fact, poised to extend with Alpine. Alonso and Aston Martin quickly made up their minds to join forces for 2023. However, that was never the plan, according to Pedro de la Rosa.

Former teammate and Aston Martin’s brand ambassador, De La Rosa revealed to Motorsport.com that the team wasn’t ready for a change. However, Vettel’s retirement news caught everyone off guard. This gave Aston Martin an opportunity, and they pounced on it with Alonso in mind.

He revealed, “It all started with Vettel’s retirement, which left a gap. Within a few days, they signed Alonso. That was not actually the plan, but after Vettel’s announcement, the contract was drawn up in a few hours.”

De La Rosa also believes the British team has struck gold with the two-time world champion. “Ultimately, I think for a team like Aston Martin this is very important. It’s not just about being fast, which Fernando is, but above all about getting things across, motivating the team, and knowing how to work together as a team. I think Fernando is very complete in these areas,” he added.

Read More: Fernando Alonso Set To Reap the Rewards of Sebastian Vettel’s Groundwork As Aston Martin Predicts Ambitious Outcome

Aston Martin replaced a world champion with another. The team will be hoping to use Alonso’s wealth of experience to their advantage. For those who are questioning Alonso’s ability to work as a team, De La Rosa believes it won’t be a problem at Aston Martin.

Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll will get along very according to Pedro de la Rosa

We witnessed Alonso’s relationship with Esteban Ocon turn sour in the latter half of the 2022 season. However, his former teammate is confident that will not be a problem for the Spaniard in his new team.

“I expect them (Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll) to get along very well because they are both experienced drivers. The relationship with your teammate ultimately depends not only on the team but also on the drivers themselves and the mutual respect,” he said.

WATCH THIS STORY: Oldest Formula 1 drivers on the 2022 Grid

Not many drivers have survived by Alonso’s side. Will things be different with Lance Stroll, especially because of his father’s involvement? Only time will tell!