Oscar Piastri is set for an extensive testing programme next year, with the aim of a 2023 race seat, after being appointed Alpine’s reserve driver.
Piastri joined Alpine’s young driver scheme in 2020 and currently leads the Formula 2 standings, having won last year’s Formula 3 title.
Alpine has already retained Fernando Alonso for 2022, and extended Esteban Ocon’s deal through 2024, but it has now slotted Piastri into a reserve position for next year.
Piastri was overlooked for a Formula 1 seat, with fellow Alpine junior Guanyu Zhou set to be announced at Alfa Romeo imminently, but he will be integrated into Alpine’s Formula 1 team in 2022.
The Australian replaces ex-F1 racer Daniil Kvyat in the role.
“I’m super excited to be joining Alpine F1 Team as Reserve Driver,” said Piastri.
“I’m looking forward to being much more involved with the team and contributing to its intended success next season.
“The Reserve Driver role is the next step towards my aim for a race seat in 2023, which is very exciting.
“I’ve proved myself in the junior formulas over the last couple of years and feel like I’m ready for Formula 1 now.
“Along with the trackside experience at race weekends, we will put together a substantial test programme in order to keep developing myself to grow even more prepared for a race seat.”
