We did the maximum possible - Alonso
World Champion Fernando Alonsofinished fifth in Indianapolis – scoring four valuable points for the title race. It broke a winning streak – but he’s determined to bounce back next time at Mangy-Cours in France!
"No, I think we did the maximum we could today. We struggled with the grip all weekend and we knew the race would be hard. So it was pretty much as I expected, and we have to just do our job, accepting that sometimes you can win and sometimes not."
You had mentioned that you were slower on the straight than Giancarlo. Why was that?"Well, I was doing the second race on the engine, which always means you lose a little bit of performance – especially after a race as demanding as Canada. Plus, Fisico had the new engine spec that I will use in Magny-Cours. He was quicker on the straights today, and that’s why I let him past during the first stint."
Are you worried about the performance of the Ferraris today?"No. Renault was the top Michelin team, and I think we did well today – we did our maximum. We couldn’t fight with the Ferraris, but we have had the advantage at nine races out of ten – they have had it for one. If that balance stays the same, then we can be satisfied with the job we are doing."
Given that North America has never been very lucky for you, you must be pleased to go back to Europe with a healthy championship lead?"Yes, I am. Last year, I scored zero points in these two races. In 2006, I have scored 14 points and I have a good lead in the championship. Michael has gained a little bit, but the gap is still quite constant compared to Monaco over a month ago. Except now, we have three races less on the calendar. So I think we have done a good job, and we can look forward to going back to Europe."
Finally, how do you expect the balance of power to evolve in Magny-Cours?"I think we will see something more normal in France, and we will be back to our usual strength. It is a home race for the team and an important race for us. We have had some strong races there in the last two years, and everybody at Renault and Michelin will be wanting to bounce back in two weeks’ time."
Source Renaultf1
