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Fernando Alonso will compete with McLaren in the 2018 season after extending his contract. The Spaniard returned to the Woking-based team in 2015 after signing a three-year deal, but has been left frustrated after engine supplier Honda has failed to produce a competitive engine.
However, last month McLaren confirmed it would split from Honda at the end of the current season, replacing the Japanese manufacturer with Renault. Rumours sparked that the deal could convince Alonso to stay for another year, as it is expected McLaren will leap up the grid order with Renault engines.
"It’s fantastic to be able to continue my relationship with everybody at McLaren,” said Alonso. "It was always where my heart was telling me to stay, and I really feel at home here. This is a fantastic team, full of incredible people, with a warmth and friendliness that I’ve never experienced elsewhere in Formula 1. I’m incredibly happy to be racing here.
"Just as important, McLaren has the technical resource and financial strength to be able to very quickly win races and world championships in F1. Although the last few years have not been easy, we have never forgotten how to win, and I believe we can achieve that again soon."
After moving to McLaren in the hope of fighting for a world championship, Alonso has been left without a podium finish in current his three-year stint. However, the Spaniard sees brighter things ahead for himself and McLaren: "The last three years have given us the momentum to plan and build for the future, and I’m looking forward to that journey," he added. "I’m excited for our future together – and I’m already working hard to make it a success."
Fergal Walsh
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Replies (11)
Login to replyf1fan0101
Posts: 1,804
Good! Would have been a shame to see him drop out
Kevin
Posts: 4,589
I hope McLaren’s sole goal of retaining Alonso will not fire back at them. It would make McLaren look ridiculous if Renault isn’t faster than Honda next year, and McLaren’s “best chassis ever” can’t even keep up with Red Bull.
calle.itw
Posts: 8,371
McLaren wont be competing with Red Bull next year in terms of chassis. After breaking up with Honda, and having to both pay the hefty exit fee and losing their de facto title sponsor, there simply isnt enough money for it. That doesnt stop them from being competitive otherwise mind, but catching Red Bull? No.
When it comes to Honda vs Renault... Its a toss up. This year means jack diddeling shit for either of them, and isnt representative of how good they will be next year. Its a toss up. Either one, both or neither could come out winning, and either one, both or neither could catch up to Ferrari, but we'll have to wait and see.
Harryw
Posts: 105
As a mclaren fan i am delighted. Just need to hope Renault catch up with engine and our designers get close to red bull. Big ask
xoya
Posts: 560
Pfff, pussy!
He should've got out as he said he will if he doesn't get the winning car.
BTW, I am huge fan of his and am really disappointed with his choice.
f1fan0101
Posts: 1,804
If you were a fan of his, you'd be happy he's staying in the pinnacle of motorsport
F1racefan97
Posts: 113
There is nothing more I want than for him to get a third championship, I don't care if he stays til 45!
xoya
Posts: 560
No point in staying just to be a spot-filler.
It's better to win at LeMans (for example) than being 10th in F1.
boudy
Posts: 1,168
Good luck to them. However it would be funny if they get beaten by an toro rosso. He is entertaining to watch though.
EzanyAziz
Posts: 4
it's the best option for both Alonso and McLaren...with the new regulation for next year 3 power units for the whole season, Renault looks to be the better option for McLaren.
calle.itw
Posts: 8,371
Im calling it, 2018 is likely Alonso's last year in F1. He has not managed to get a drive with Mercedes, Red Bull is locked, and I doubt he'd go back to Ferrari. He'll stay and milk McLaren for what they are worth one more year, and then he'll go.