You can now get a Fernando Alonso edition of the Alpine A110 R

Not satisfied with the lightweighting mission that resulted in the 1,082kg A110 R earlier this week, Alpine has decided that its hardcore, track-bred variant needs some additional pedigree. Enter the Alpine A110 R Fernando Alonso.

Yep, the two-time world champion has lent his name to a limited edition version of the R, of which only 32 (the number of Alonso’s F1 victories to date) will be made. In addition to the liberal use of carbon fibre and semi-slick tyres, the ‘Nando version is sprinkled with various nods to the veteran driver.

For a start, the Racing Matt Blue paint is the same as that used on Alonso’s A522 F1 car; orange brake calipers, a yellow, red and blue flag (the Spaniard’s racing colours) adorn the car’s rear quarter and door panels; Fernando’s signature can be found on the bonnet and embroidered on the seats.

Meanwhile the sun visor is also embellished with the quote: “There is more than one path to the top of the mountain.” A reference to El Plan, perhaps?

The timing of the car - and let’s face it, the fact that it exists at all - is curious given that Alonso spectacularly announced his departure from the team back in August. And lately he hasn’t held back on a lack of reliability from his car costing him dearly in the drivers’ standings.

This might explain why the launch of the car in Japan today was attended by… Alonso’s teammate Esteban Ocon. Hmm.

Driver and brand’s commitment to each other aside, you do at least get a signed Fernando Alonso replica helmet thrown in with your Fernando Alonso Alpine. And each car gets a plaque denoting its number in the run, as well as the corresponding Alonso F1 win, which is a nice touch.

Anyone else getting Infiniti FX Vettel Edition vibes? Bet those aren’t worth £100k any more…