Alpine release statement after surprise driver exit

Alpine has released a heartfelt statement following the surprise exit of Abbi Pulling, who won last season's F1 Academy. 

Pulling announced on Friday afternoon that the decision had been made to leave the Enstone-based team, whose driver programme she was apart of. 

The 21-year-old was signed by Alpine in March 2022, before representing the team in F1 Academy the past two seasons. 

Following on from winning the 2024 title, Pulling will compete for Rodin Cars in GB3. 

"After our championship-winning season in F1 Academy & after lengthy discussions I have decided not to renew with the BWT Alpine F1 Team," Pulling wrote on X. 

"Thank you to the team & partners for your support & amazing memories. Merci, Alpine. I'm excited to start a new chapter with Rodin Cars."

Shortly after Pulling posted her statement on social media, Alpine released its own thanking the driver for the "memories" created together.

Alpine's statement on X read: "Our F1 Academy champion! Thank you for the memories together, Abbi Pulling. We’re so proud of all that you have achieved during your time with us.

"It has been amazing to see you grow and develop, and we wish you the best of luck for the future and will continue to closely follow your progress"