Fernando takes his award

Fernando Alonso went back home on Friday to receive the Principe de Asturias award in his home-town of Oviedo. “This day is for you all – not for me,” shouted a delighted Fernando Alonso into the microphone, as he stood looking out over the city's main square.

His fans had turned out in force to congratulate him on becoming the youngest World Champion in Formula 1 history, and he was determined to let them know what it meant to him. “It is a lot easier to drive when you know you are not alone!”

Earlier in the day, the Spaniard had received the Principe de Asturias award from Crown Prince Felipe is Spain, and in the presence of his mother Queen Sofia, in Oviedo’s Campeamor theatre. Fernando was cited for his tenacity and desire to win in a demanding sporting discipline, but also for the pride and prestige he had brought to his country. “Our people are proud of your successes, and it has brought them great optimism. Not only have you reached the highest levels of your sport, but each triumph has been accompanied by the Spanish flag, which you have taken with pride around the world.”

Throughout, a deferential Fernando simply smiled – his calculating, cold racing persona cast aside for an emotional day in his hometown. Crowds lined the streets in and out of the theatre, and then massed in the main city square – where they had danced in the fountain on the evening of his championship triumph – to proclaim their new champion. Bravo champion!