28/12/2008
NEWS STORY
Once again, there are reports that Fernando Alonso has inked a deal which will see two-time world Champion Fernando Alonso head to Ferrari.
Gazzetta dello Sport claims that the Spaniard has a "secret agreement" with the Maranello outfit which will see him in one of the legendary scarlet cars in 2011.
While the Italian newspaper admits that there are get out clauses on both sides, it claims that Alonso could even head to the Italian team as early as 2010, should Kimi Raikkonen have another difficult season in 2009.
Against all odds, Alonso won two races in 2008 in a car which was never really capable of worrying BMW, far less McLaren and Ferrari. Indeed, the FIA recently revealed that Renault will be allowed to carry out changes to its engine ahead of the new season in order to allow the French manufacturer to catch up with its rivals, having proved to be a major loser following the introduction of the engine freeze. The decision was given the full backing of rival teams.
Despite the two wins, Alonso's future with Renault was very much in doubt, and in addition to continued speculation linking him with Ferrari, Honda is widely claimed to have been eager to secure his services, with reports of Ross Brawn and Nick Fry being told that money was no object - somewhat ironic, with the benefit of hindsight.
While Felipe Massa and Kimi Raikkonen both have contracts until the end of 2010, the Finn, in particular, will need to raise his game next season.
While Alonso has inked a two-year deal with Renault, with the future of the car manufacturers in F1 uncertain, and a question mark over the 2007 championship winner's commitment, it would be surprising if Alonso hasn't made some sort of agreement with the 2008 Constructors Championship winners should a seat become available.