Planet-F1

Alonso: I remain realistic

Monday 6th October 2008

Whilst eager to repeat his Singapore Grand Prix success in the near future, Fernando Alonso remains realistic about Renault's chances of winning more races this season.

Alonso stunned everyone when he came from 15th on the grid to win the inaugural Singapore race around the Marina Bay. The victory helped Renault to consolidate their fourth place on the Constructors' Championship.

The Spaniard was quick to praise his Renault team after his victory in Singapore.

"I was extremely happy. We had a difficult start to the season and so to be fighting for the win a few months later seemed unbelievable, but the team didn't give up and we never lowered our aims," he said.

"From the first practice session in Singapore, we were on the pace; the car was working well, and we had high hopes for the weekend.

"Qualifying was a big disappointment, but in the race our luck changed and we were able to take advantage of the situation. It was an amazing feeling and I want to thank all the members of the team once again for their efforts over the last few months because it's thanks for them that this victory was possible."

The former double World Champion says the French squad are determined to get that "winning feeling" again, but they know they can't compete with the top two teams.

"After our victory in Singapore, the whole team is determined to have those feelings again as soon as possible. We must remain focused and try to repeat our level of performance from Singapore to fight at the front," he added.

"However, I remain realistic as it will be difficult to race the Ferraris and McLarens, but we will give our maximum to score as many points as possible because the fight for fourth in the Championship remains very close."