Alonso Reckons Renault Might Find It Difficult To Become Front-Runners Next Season
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Aug 07, 2008
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The new rules will see aerodynamic changes designed to reduce downforce as well as the re-introduction of slick tyres and the introduction of the new KERS energy recovery systems.
They have been seen by some teams as a chance to level the playing field and allow them to compete at the sharp end of the grid alongside Ferrari and McLaren Mercedes next year.
However, double World Champion Alonso already fears that Renault - with whom he won back-to-back titles in 2005 and 2006 - might find any step up the grid beyond them.
The double world champion said: “Honestly I think it’s difficult, because although there are going to be completely new rules. Next year there could be changes, but I’ve never seen a car that’s fighting at the back one year then sweep the field the next.
“It’s always step by step. So it’s hard to close the gap, whether it’s the aerodynamics, the engine, or the tyres. Whatever our problems are, we’d have to work very hard to close that gap.
“But, to be honest, it’s going to be difficult to move ahead of them (top teams), and to make a car that will be superior to theirs.”
While Alonso has scored three top-10 finishes in the last four races, the two time world champion has failed to find the podium this year and he sits eighth in the championship. That has fueled speculation that he will leave Renault in 2009 with Honda being the latest team to be linked to the Spaniard.
The Japanese manufacturer says it is willing to risk a short-term contract with Alonso for potential long-term gain.
“If you have one year and do well, then it becomes two years and three years,” Honda team boss Ross Brawn said. “It depends how well you do. I am sure the McLaren deal was more than a one-year deal and that didn’t last beyond a year.”
Alonso says he’s heard the speculation but is not looking ahead to the future.
“(Honda) have said a lot of good, positive things and I appreciate it but I’m still focused on this year. We are not going to throw in the towel, we are going to fight until the last lap.”
