Current McLaren contract expires at the end of next season
Tuesday 20 September 2016 12:13, UK
Fernando Alonso says motivation is key to whether he renews his contract at McLaren, but still harbours hopes of a title fight next season.
The Spaniard has frequently insisted that McLaren will be his last team in Formula 1 and with a current deal that expires at the end of 2017, his future in the sport is uncertain.
"I'm 34 and I could go on for more years but it's all about motivation and willingness," Alonso told Cadena Ser radio. "I'm just thinking about next year.
Alonso eyes 'greatest achievement'
"We will see how I feel when the time comes, if I sign a contract extension."
McLaren made steady gains in 2016, currently sixth in the Constructors' Championship, and Alonso believes the team will be in a "strong" position next year. The aim for the two-time world champion, as he said in July, is to be "in the fight for the title" following the major rules revamp.
That seemed unlikely after a nightmare campaign last season, but Alonso is optimistic once again, even claiming the first win of the renewed McLaren-Honda partnership would be his "greatest achievement". He battled through to seventh at the Singapore GP, finishing as the best-placed driver not in a Mercedes, Red Bull or Ferrari.
"The hunger is always there," he added. "After one year and a half without being close to the podium, I have more motivation. I come out as a lion in every race."
Whether he stays or goes could determine the fate of British team mate Jenson Button, who is making way for Belgian Stoffel Vandoorne next year but has an option for 2018.
Don't miss the F1 Report for all the reaction and analysis from the Singapore GP. F1 technical expert Craig Scarborough joins Natalie Pinkham and Marc Priestley in the studio at 8:30pm on Wednesday on Sky Sports F1.
