De la Rosa: « Alonso must not leave McLaren »

The test driver for McLaren, Pedro De La Rosa, does not believe that his compatriot Fernando Alonso should leave the team despite the difficulties he has experienced with it during the season.

Alonso is largely the subject of rumors that see him leaving the British team. And this comes after months of very difficult relations between the Spaniard and the team boss Ron Dennis.

However, De La Rosa believes that the former world champion should stay with McLaren, as it is the most reliable option to allow Alonso to continue winning races.

« If you ask me what I would do in Alonso’s place, I would tell you that obviously I would stay with McLaren because they have shown great competitiveness and Fernando is a born winner, » explained de la Rosa on the airwaves of Cadena Ser radio.

« Clearly, he must be satisfied with what he has done, but nothing suggests that he will leave the team; everyone continues to work in case Alonso is part of the McLaren team in 2008. »

De la Rosa also stated that Alonso received full support from McLaren this season.

« It’s incredible that someone can still waste time talking about a boycott against Alonso. It’s an insult to the team and to me. » He stated.

« Alonso was not alone this year. No team goes against their own interests and those of their drivers. »

The Spaniard also paid tribute to his teammate Lewis Hamilton, who took on his role after losing the World Championship to Räikkönen in the last Grand Prix of the 2007 season.

« I believe Hamilton should be admired. He lost the championship, but he did not blame the mechanics and engineers. » concluded De la Rosa.