Alonso to take seat at McLaren
The Spaniard will defend his title next season at Renault before moving to McLaren in a surprise move which was announced yesterday, over a year in advance.
Alonso’s decision has raised questions over Renault’s long-term commitment to Formula One, but the 24-year-old wants to leave on successful terms with another championship.
He said: “Obviously I will be sad to leave Renault but sometimes possibilities come along which are just too good to miss.
“I’m pleased that we are able to make this announcement already as it will allow my current team and I to focus 100% on defending the world championships next year.”
Despite his attachment to Renault, Alonso revealed he had little hesitation in accepting McLaren’s offer.
“I achieved my lifetime ambition with Renault this year and, for my career, I felt that it was time for a new challenge,” he said. “That will be to try and win with another team.
“To become part of a team with such a desire to succeed and passion for performance is a dream come true for any Formula One driver.
“It will be a new beginning for me and a tremendous challenge.”
Renault president Patrick Faure accepted Alonso’s decision with a heavy heart.
He said: “The Renault Formula One team and Fernando Alonso have enjoyed historic successes together since he joined the team in 2002.
“I was disappointed to learn of Fernando’s decision but, by the end of 2006, he will have spent five seasons with Renault.
“Fresh challenges are essential for any sportsman, and he has taken the decision to pursue a new direction in his career. That is part of Formula One, and part of life.”
For McLaren, the news comes on the back of a high-profile sponsorship deal with Vodafone and signals their desire to win a world title for the first time since Mika Hakkinen’s in 1999.
Team boss Ron Dennis said: “It’s great that our strong belief in the strength and competitiveness of the McLaren-Mercedes package has been further endorsed by the world champion.”
Dennis has to find a partner for Alonso, with Kimi Raikkonen and Juan Pablo Montoya out of contract at the end of next season.
Raikkonen is strongly rumoured to be on his way to Ferrari but Dennis revealed talks were underway with both drivers.
He added: “Both Juan Pablo and Kimi are extremely talented, professional and competitive Formula One drivers and they have and will continue to concentrate on our joint challenge for the championships.”
