Alonso remains realistic

Spaniard says chances of another win are slim

Last updated: 7th October 2008   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Alonso remains realistic

Alonso: Amazing feeling

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Following his surprise victory in the Singapore Grand Prix, Fernando Alonso has said he remains realistic about the prospect of scoring another win in the remaining three races of the 2008 Formula One season.

The double World Champion came through from 15th on the grid to take the chequered flag two weekends ago, Alonso having benefited from the internvention of the safety car.

Despite saying that Renault's R28 car had improved its performance, the Spaniard acknowledged that luck played its part in the team's first victory for two seasons.

"I was extremely happy. We had a difficult start to the season and so to be fighting for the win a few months later seemed unbelievable, but the team didn't give up and we never lowered our aims," Alonso said.

"From the first practice session in Singapore, we were on the pace; the car was working well, and we had high hopes for the weekend.

"Qualifying was a big disappointment, but in the race our luck changed and we were able to take advantage of the situation. It was an amazing feeling and I want to thank all the members of the team once again for their efforts over the last few months because it's thanks for them that this victory was possible."

Slim chance

Speaking ahead of Sunday's Japanese Grand Prix, Alonso added that, given the dominance of Ferrari and McLaren Mercedes, the chances of Renault scoring another win this season were slim.

Nevertheless, with Renault placed five points ahead of Toyota in the Constructors' Championship, he hoped that they could continue to show improved form and secure fourth place in the standings.

"After our victory in Singapore, the whole team is determined to have those feelings again as soon as possible. We must remain focused and try to repeat our level of performance from Singapore to fight at the front," he said.

"However, I remain realistic as it will be difficult to race the Ferraris and McLarens, but we will give our maximum to score as many points as possible because the fight for fourth in the Championship remains very close."