Competing in endurance since 2013, French team Signatech Alpine has claimed two European titles, two world championship titles and has scored three LMP2 class victories in the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Alpine Endurance Team will unveil its LMP1 prototype, colours and driver line-up in the upcoming months prior to commencing its test programme.

Patrick Marinoff, Alpine’s Managing Director, said: “The return to endurance in 2013 marked the beginning of a long-term adventure. After eight successful years against some of the best teams in the world, it is time to take a new step by challenging the constructors in the premier category as we will also do in F1.”

Philippe Sinault, Signatech Director, said: “Alpine’s history is full of challenges. Few believed in us back in 2013, but we proved ourselves step by step, demonstrating that we were capable of excelling at the highest level. Today, this new challenge is in the same vein thanks to the opening of a unique window of opportunity. We will be the newcomers in the premier category and we intend to make life difficult for our rivals.”

Gérard Neveu, WEC CEO, said: “The announcement from Alpine today is great news for the WEC and for 24 Hours of Le Mans. I’d like to welcome Alpine to the top category of endurance racing where they can battle for the overall victory.”

Richard Mille, FIA Endurance Commission President, said: ”Today’s news is an indication that the FIA World Endurance Championship remains an attractive proposition for the manufacturers, and I’m very happy to have an iconic sport cars brand with a significant history in endurance racing joining the ranks in the top category”