That in turn sparked rumours Alonso could join Ferrari for next year in place of Felipe Massa, who has so far under-performed in the two grands prix this season to date and is without a point.

When asked whether such a clause existed, he stoically replied “no”, although suggested any deal signed these days is far from cast iron.

Referring to last season, when he was allowed to leave McLaren one year into a three-year agreement, he added: “I signed for two years with Renault.

“But as we saw last year, the contracts are always very flexible.”

For now, the 26-year-old is committed to helping Renault win races again, as they did during his two title-winning years in 2005 and 2006.

Although Alonso finished a creditable fourth in Australia early last month, he could only claim a single point 11 days ago from the race in Malaysia.

“We are disappointed with our performances in the first two races but it is not time to give up now, it is time to keep working as hard as we can,” said Alonso.

“Then we will see at the middle of the season or the end of the season where we are.

“Next year there is a big change of rules it seems and that can change the picture again in F1.

“So, at the moment I am really convinced that we can do a good job – Renault and I together.”