Alonso relishing title defence bid
Fernando Alonso cannot wait to begin the defence of his world championship crown, insisting Renault are the team to beat this season.
The world champions have consistently been among the front-runners in winter testing prior to this weekend’s first race in Bahrain.
Alonso, who became Formula One’s youngest champion at the age of 24, is convinced he has what it takes to defend his crown.
He said: “I think we have done what we needed to. The car is ready to race: it has done a lot of laps, on all types of circuits and conditions.
“Now is the time to measure ourselves against the others in the first race. We have done the maximum possible, so I am relaxed going into the season.
“I think Renault are definitely up there. Honda, Ferrari, McLaren and Renault have been the four big teams in winter testing, and now we must check in the opening races.
“For sure, Renault are the ones to beat because we are the world champions, and I am confident we have done a good job.”
Alonso has not raced since Renault tied up the constructors’ championship in China on October 16 and he is looking forward to an end to the monotony of testing and a return to competition.
“After a whole winter off, I want to see the people in the grandstands, and feel the emotion of Formula One again,” he added.
“But also, because Renault are the world champions, the whole team is very motivated. I don’t think there is more pressure, but I am very proud to have number one on the car.
“It is the maximum you can achieve in all motorsport, one of the moments you dream about all of your career.
“I am excited to arrive in Bahrain with number one on the car, and I will be trying to enjoy this year to the maximum.”
This year will be Alonso’s last for Renault before a move to McLaren in 2007.
The Spaniard wants to deliver a parting gift of another title to the team who gave him his big break in Formula One.
“It is very difficult to win a championship, and you need a lot of things around you to have the chance,” he said.
“Last year, I started the season dreaming of maybe winning one race and getting regular podiums, but we won the title. “In 2006, I know we have a competitive car, so my only goal is to repeat the title.”
