Four-time Formula One champion Sebastian Vettel has signed a three-year deal with Ferrari, the team have announced.

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The announcement brings to an end Alonso’s five-year relationship with the team which has failed to yield the third world title he long believed would be his in switching allegiance to the Maranello marque. 

Alonso did finish runner-up on three occasions, missing out by four points in 2010 and just three in 2012, whilst he was a long way adrift last season, with Vettel champion on each occasion.

Instead, Alonso leaves with only 11 victories to his name, the last of which was on home soil in Spain last season, as well as another 33 podiums.

Since Red Bull’s announcement of Vettel’s departure shortly before the Japanese Grand Prix, Alonso has since played games with the media when quizzed on his future plans.

Although apparently knowing where he is heading, the 33-year-old still conceded leaving Ferrari was tough.

Alonso said: “Today is not an easy one for me, because even if I always look to the future with great enthusiasm and determination, at the end of this season my journey as a Ferrari driver will come to an end.

“It was a difficult decision to take, but a carefully considered one, and from start to finish, my love for Ferrari was a prime consideration.

“I have always been lucky enough to make my own decisions about my future and I have that possibility now too. I must thank the team for that, as it understood my position.

“I leave Scuderia Ferrari after five years, during which I reached my very best level professionally, tackling major challenges that pushed me to find new limits. I also proved to be a true team-player, putting the interests of the Scuderia before my own.”