Title bid possible for Alonso in 2018 - Fittipaldi

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F1 legend Emerson Fittipaldi believes Fernando Alonso could be able to fight for a third world title next season, if McLaren, and Renault deliver a strong package.

The great Brazilian, who won the 1974 world championship with McLaren, is a big fan of Alonso and has no doubts that the Spaniard's chances of success should be greatly enhanced by his former team's decision to switch to Renault power from next season.

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"I think it will be much better," Fittipaldi told AS newspaper Sunday in Mexico.

"I think Fernando is the best and I also think McLaren has a great car. As Alonso said the other day, it is a great car in the corners.

"So if they continue with that quality of chassis and aerodynamics with the Renault engine next year, they can fight for podiums, victories and even the title," predicted the 70-year-old.

In addition to Alonso, Fittipaldi's focus as a fan is on Carlos Sainz, a future great he says.

"He is in a good place with Renault and I see him going step by step to the top," he said.

"The future is his along with drivers like Verstappen," Fittpaldi added.

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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.