I won't be the new Ron Dennis - Briatore

Renault Team Principal, Flavio Briatore, is convinced that Fernando Alonso has become only stronger after the difficult time at McLaren. The flamboyant Italian also declared that the rivalry between Alonso-Hamilton will not repeat itself at Renault this year as Alonso will once again team up with a rookie driver: Nelson Piquet Jr.

Briatore declared in the Spanish newspaper 'Marca': "Fernando has come to the team with plenty of aggression and motivation. The McLaren experience made him stronger. He is more responsible. He's changed for the better. I'm delighted to see him so motivated and professional."

Alonso had a very difficult 2007 season as Ron Dennis publicly choose Lewis Hamilton as number one of the team. But coming back to Renault has made Alonso smile again.

"I want to see him smile again and when I see him in the factory I see the old Fernando," Briatore said. "In a sport like Formula One, where there is so much pressure and danger, you need to feel part of the team and Fernando is part of the team. We are delighted to have him back and we hope he will be happy. If he is, then the results will follow.

"The fact that Fernando is back with the team has been a great motivation for all of us. If the car is as good as we think it is, we can be up there fighting to win races."

Briatore also ensures Alonso that there will be no repeat of the problems he had at McLaren eventhough the Spandiard will team up with a rookie driver one again.

Flavio said: "I won't be the new Ron Dennis. I know how to manage the team and I don't want any dispute. Each person directs the team in their own way but I can guaranteed that there will be no problems this season.

"At first sight they are two excellent drivers. Piquet is getting the chance to be in an important team, with a great driver beside him. Nelsinho is a young and intelligent boy. He knows what he wants, and for him having Alonso as team-mate is a great opportunity. He will take advantage of that."