Stoffel Vandoorne relishing Alonso challenge

Stoffel Vandoorne is looking forward to being pitched against two time world champion Fernando Alonso next season.

McLaren revealed on Saturday that Vandoorne would race for them in 2017, replacing veteran Jenson Button. Vandoorne therefore will partner Fernando Alonso who many consider to be the best on the grid. However, this doesn't faze the Belgian.

“It's big shoes to fill. Stepping into Jenson's seat is not easy as a young driver but I am totally up for a challenge. I have been in a reserve position this year and I have been following them on track, I have learnt a lot about how they push a team forward, how they help the team with development and having all three of us pushing the team forward we could be very successful."

“They are both world champions and when you want to get to F1 you have to go up against the best. I am looking forward to the challenge. I have raced in various series before F1 and I have managed to win championships so I am looking forward to being on the grid in Melbourne."

Vandoorne has already made his F1 debut when he replaced the injured Alonso at the Bahrain Grand Prix this year. He finished tenth, claiming McLaren's first point of the year. He is currently competing in Super Formula, a top-class racing series in Japan.

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  • Country BE
  • Date of b. Mar 26 1992 (34)
  • Place of b. Kortrijk, BE
  • Weight 65 kg
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