Alonso to stay at McLaren after renewing deal with F1 team
McLaren have confirmed that two-time world champion Fernando Alonso is to race with the team in the 2018 Formula One season.
Two-time Formula One world champion Fernando Alonso is to remain at McLaren for the 2018 season after signing a new contract with the British team, it has been announced.
"It's fantastic to be able to continue my relationship with everybody at McLaren," said Alonso, who is in his second spell at the outfit after rejoining in 2015. "It was always where my heart was telling me to stay, and I really feel at home here.
Alonso optimistic McLaren can compete once more
"This is a fantastic team, full of incredible people, with a warmth and friendliness that I’ve never experienced elsewhere in Formula 1. I'm incredibly happy to be racing here."
McLaren have endured three seasons of struggle with engine supplier Honda but, ahead of 2018's switch to Renault, the 36-year-old Spaniard spoke of his optimism that the team will soon be competitive again.
"Just as important, McLaren has the technical resource and financial strength to be able to very quickly win races and world championships in F1. Although the last few years have not been easy, we have never forgotten how to win, and I believe we can achieve that again soon.
"The last three years have given us the momentum to plan and build for the future, and I’m looking forward to that journey. I'm excited for our future together - and I'm already working hard to make it a success."
Brown: Extending Alonso stay "always made sense"
Executive director Zak Brown added: "I'm delighted to be able to confirm that Fernando will remain at McLaren. He has been a fantastic asset to the whole organisation for the past three years, is an incredible individual and is one of the most accomplished and talented racing drivers of the modern era.
"It always made sense for us to continue our journey together."