Alonso 'optimistic' ahead of Silverstone

Fernando Alonso says he is "optimistic" of a strong British Grand Prix weekend following an encouraging test last week for McLaren.

With Alonso having retired from the Austrian Grand Prix on the opening lap as a result of a heavy collision with Kimi Raikkonen, the Spaniard tested a number of aerodynamic updates for McLaren on the Wednesday after the race. Eric Boullier said the test showed positive signs, and Alonso - who was also upbeat following his running - says it has boosted confidence ahead of this weekend's race at Silverstone.

“We go to Silverstone this week feeling optimistic after two good test days in Austria," Alonso said. "We’ve been busy analysing all of the data which has been very useful to continue learning about our package and keep moving forward. It was very positive that we were able to pass the 100-lap mark on the second day, and we’re really motivated to keep pushing into the next couple of grands prix before the summer break.

“Silverstone is a very special race for the team, of course, and also a fantastic circuit to drive. It’s one of the fastest on the calendar, which also means it won’t be a circuit that will suit our car so well, but we’re still looking forward to the weekend and want to make the most of every session. The crash I had with Kimi in Austria was really unlucky, but we quickly put that behind us during testing and know that we’ll have some great support from the fans at the team’s home race.

“I love driving the Silverstone circuit; I’ve won there twice, in 2006 and 2011, so I have very good memories, and it’s a really exciting track for the drivers with the mix of high-speed and medium-speed corners. Plus, the unpredictable weather always provides an interesting gamble. We know this weekend will be challenging, but we’ll be pushing hard every session to put on the best show we can for the fans.”

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