Alonso remains, to say the least, pessimistic

Fernando Alonso believes that Renault may not be up to par with its main competitors next season despite several planned regulatory changes.

Honestly, I think it will be difficult even if there is a complete overhaul of the rules… commented the Spaniard for the radio station Cadena Ser.

« Next year, there will be changes but I have never seen a car go from fourth or fifth place to first in one off-season. »

« Everything happens step by step. It is therefore difficult to bridge a gap in terms of aerodynamics, the engine, or the tires. Whatever our problems may be, we must work very hard to fill these gaps. »

« But, to be honest, it will be difficult to get ahead of the teams established at the top of the standings and to set up a car that is superior to theirs. »

Renault, world champion in 2005 and 2006, isn’t making a strong impression this season and has only managed one podium in 11 races. The French team is 80 points behind Ferrari, the current leader in the constructors’ championship.

The lack of form from Renault has fueled rumors about a potential departure of Alonso. Honda Racing has been linked to the Spaniard for 2009.

The double world champion stated that he welcomed the offer proposed by the Japanese team, which contained six ‘zeros’, but made it clear that he was focusing on restoring confidence in Renault.

« She said a lot of good things, positive things that I understand, but I am focusing on the current year at the moment, » added Alonso regarding Honda Racing.

« We are not going to throw in the towel, we will fight until the last round. »

The Spaniard also reaffirmed on this occasion that he had no regrets about leaving McLaren and preferred Renault’s more modest results.

« I don’t think I could have been in second position at this stage of the season with McLaren, » he continued when asked if he preferred to be in fourth place with Renault or second with McLaren.

« This year, I happen to finish fourth or fifth but with a team that really wants me. »

Finally, he is convinced that he would not have had the slightest chance to fight for the crown with the Woking team.

« With the situation I experienced towards the end of last season, I realized there was no way to achieve a good result. »