Sep.19 (GMM) Fernando Alonso has decided against switching to BMW-Sauber or Honda for the 2009 season, according to the Spanish daily newspaper AS.
The sports newspaper claims the 27-year-old Spaniard believes Renault, his current team, is likely to catch up with and pass BMW due to the sweeping rules changes next year.
Diario AS also said Alonso was reluctant to agree to BMW's contractual terms, where he would be bound to a multiple-year term rather than free - as he currently is - to accept a more competitive seat at the end of a season.
The newspaper said BMW finalised its offer to Alonso earlier this week, but that the former double world champion also turned down Honda's bid, on the grounds that the Japanese team is not likely to be competitive as early as 2009.
"Of course I have to look around at the possibilities for next year that exist outside of Renault," Alonso said in interview with Germany's Sport Bild.
"My priority is Renault, but only if we make a big step forwards with the 2009 car."
He confirmed that he has "three or four" options open to him for 2009, and that it is "no secret" that he has been in talks with Honda's team boss Ross Brawn.
Written: Fri, 19 Sep 2008 07:31:25
[ Print View ][ E-Mail Article ]
- July 01, 2009Ferrari plays down Alonso 'speculation'
- June 30, 2009Ferrari to confirm Alonso at Monza?
- June 20, 2009Williams 1-2 in P3
- June 19, 2009Red Bull dominant again
- June 15, 2009Webber future on hold
- June 05, 2009Kovalainen takes P2
- May 23, 2009Button stuns in Monaco
- May 23, 2009Alonso on top
- May 21, 2009Barrichello top in P1
- May 10, 2009Sunday quotes: Renault
- (September 19, 2008)View all headlines from this date
