Alonso targets race wins in 2018

Fernando Alonso and practically everyone within Formula One is hoping for McLaren revival in 2018.

After some desperate years partnering Honda, McLaren head into the winter in positive mood.

They have ditched the Japanese manufacturer for 2018 and have switched to Renault power-units.

Renault, whilst concentrating on their own works team, have provided an engine to Red Bull Racing that saw them regularly score podiums and take five Grand Prix victories in the past two seasons.

McLaren are hopeful that they can enjoy some similar success, especially if their chassis can be a match for Red Bull Racing.

‘We can see what Red Bull are doing with the Renault power unit, Maybe they are not the quickest, but they are fighting for podiums and victories. That will be a very good step if we can achieve that.’ Alonso told Sky Sports.

He added: ‘When l joined the project, I joined firstly because it was because Honda coming in. Some of my inspiration to be a driver was when l was a kid watching television and Senna and Prost were driving the McLaren-Honda.

‘It didn’t work, the performance wasn’t there, and now we will split. I’m sad on one side and happy on the other because l think next year will be much better.