Prost: 'Vandoorne on the same level as Alonso, or even better!'

McLaren's Stoffel Vandoorne was the recipient of some high praise coming from four-time world champion Alain Prost.

The French F1 legend and Renault advisor has been a keen observer of the sport's young talent and considers the Belgian to be on an equal par with his prestigious team mate Fernando Alonso.

"Everyone watched Vandoorne because, prior to coming into F1, he was recognised as one of the most exceptional youngsters for the future," Prost told Belgian broadcaster RTBF.

"He started at McLaren with reliability problems and never the same equipment as Alonso.

"But I think Vandoorne is now playing on the same level or even better than Alonso. He's doing his development in a perfect way," he said.

• McLaren's Vandoorne had his doubts in 2017

Prost insists however that the 25-year-old will have to confirm his potential next season, as McLaren hopefully delivers a competitive package with its new engine partner, Reault.

"Next year with a good engine, we'll see if he's efficient and reliable. Being on a team with Alonso is not easy, so Vandoorne has to stay calm, take his time, and I think there is no problem for him to be on top in years to come," Prost said.

Meanwhile, Prost referred to the 2017 season more generally, during which Renault struggled with the now high levels of technology in F1.

"Today, we are in a phase of hyper-technology, but it's normal," he said.

"This is the first time we were almost overwhelmed by this technology, but it's not negative," Prost added. "It's just a cycle."

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