Alonso initiates talks with Renault for possible 2018 return!

Fernando Alonso has reportedly commenced talks with Renault about a potential return to the French works team for 2018.

While Alonso gears up for his Indy 500 challenge, and on the back of more Honda reliability woes this weekend in Bahrain, McLaren and its star driver have agreed that no contract talks shall be held until the summer.

"After the summer I will think and I will make a decision about what I will do next year," Alonso said in Bahrain.

Alonso' s F1 future may not appear clear but what is certain however is the fact the 35-year-old is no longer prepared to be a midfield runner.

"Definitely. I want to win, I'm here to win," he said. "No more fifth or sixth.

"I think I'm really at the best of my career right now in terms of driving, so for next year there is only one target -- fighting for the world championship."

Power unit failure sets back Alonso

But his options for 2018 appear limited, with bridges burned at Ferrari and Mercedes and Red Bull having no vacancy.

Renault, however, could be a possible choice. Alonso won his only two titles for the French carmaker over a decade ago, and the newly-developing works outfit might now be seen as 'best of the rest' behind the top three teams.

Germany's Bild newspaper reports: "The French have a serious interest in the Spaniard and the first talks have already taken place.

"Renault wants to bring its veteran back and make him Nico Hulkenberg's teammate in 2018."

The Auto Bild publication has more details, saying talks took place in Bahrain on Saturday morning, involving Alonso's manager Luis Garcia Abad and Renault boss Cyril Abiteboul in the Renault hospitality area.

Renault has offered no comment on the matter.

GALLERY: All the pictures from Saturday in Bahrain

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.