Fernando Alonso has signed a contract extension with McLaren and committed to the team until the end of the 2018 season.
The Spaniard believes McLaren new engine deal with Renault will return the team to competitiveness next season after three worst seasons with its partner Honda.
Alonso has been thinking about breaking up and even divorce, tired of being relegated to the back of the grid and playing the supporting roles since joining McLaren in 2015, he has met several contenders in August, while thinking about changing situation and leaving F1.
“But deep in me, there was always something that told me to stay at McLaren,” The two-time world champion said to the media.
“I spent a lot if time at our factory, I know what is planned for next season, I know what Renault is working on and I think I can get back on the podium.” Alonso added.
Although he claims to have made his decision before the announcement made by McLaren mid-September in Singapore GP, the break with Honda and especially the coalition with Renault have convinced Alonso to give a new chance to the British team that runs after a world title since 2008.
“I have maintained very strong relations with Renault, they show with Red Bull this season that they are very performance is very motivating.” Alonso said.
“It was always where my heart was telling me to stay. 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.
“McLaren has the technical resource and financial strength to be able to very quickly win races and world championship in F1.
“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.
Fernando Alonso during at Barcelona test 2017 winter test at Barcelona. (Source:www.youtube.com)
McLaren executive director Zak Brown on the other hand, he said Fernando is a talented racing driver for the past three years.
“Fernando has been a fantastic asset to the whole organisation for the past three years, is an incredible individual and is one of the most accomplished and talented racing drivers of the modern era.” Brown said.
“Next year is capital. We have the drivers we want, we have a very good engine, we have been given the necessary resources to have a competitive car.” Brown added.
